Foundations/Data Science
2024/2025 Fall Faculty of Computer Science Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
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Course Description
This course provides an introductory overview of the key steps in a typical data science project, using the R programming language and environment as the primary tool. It aims to: (i) introduce students to foundational data science methods and processes, which can be explored further at the graduate level; and (ii) familiarize students with one of the essential tools in data science, the R environment, and programming language.
Designed for students without a strong technical background in programming or computer science, the course is suitable for both Computer Science students and those from other disciplines. The approach is predominantly practical and case-study oriented, supplemented by essential theoretical concepts to provide a solid understanding.
Throughout the course, students will gain hands-on experience with R, learning to navigate the stages of a data science project—from data importation and manipulation to analysis, model building, reporting, and deployment. They will learn to tackle the primary challenges encountered in data science using R, acquiring the skills and knowledge necessary to conduct data-driven projects effectively.