Introduction to the Principles of Linked Open Data

Abstract

This lesson offers a brief and concise introduction to Linked Open Data (LOD). No prior knowledge is assumed. Readers should gain a clear understanding of the concepts behind linked open data, how it is used, and how it is created. The tutorial is split into five parts, plus further reading: 1. Linked open data: what is it? 2. The role of the Uniform Resource Identifier (URI) 3. How LOD organises knowledge: ontologies 4. The Resource Description Framework (RDF) and data formats 5. Querying linked open data with SPARQL Further reading and resources The tutorial should take a couple of hours to complete, and you may find it helpful to re-read sections to solidify your understanding. Technical terms have been linked to their corresponding page on Wikipedia, and you are encouraged to pause and read about terms that you find challenging. After having learned some of the key principles of LOD, the best way to improve and solidify that knowledge is to practise. This tutorial provides opportunities to do so. By the end of the course you should understand the basics of LOD, including key terms and concepts.