The Data-Driven World

Catalog description

Recent technological advancements have enabled us to measure, record, and analyze more data than ever before. How can we effectively use this data to solve real-world problems and better understand the world around us? In this course, we will learn how computers can create a statistical model to learn from human-generated data and find patterns or make predictions. We will explore different algorithms that create a wide variety of models, each with their own pros and cons. Through R programming exercises integrated across the course, we will apply these models to many different kinds of data sourced from urban development, education, business, etc. and analyze our findings. Based on individual interest, students will choose to investigate a specific research question using domain-specific data as part of a quarter-long project. Lastly, we will discuss important ethical debates on the possible uses of data and their implications in today's world. By the end of the course, students will develop a technical coding skillset to investigate hypotheses in any given dataset, and be able to connect the insights they derive to larger issues of society, equity, and justice.