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University of Leeds

Evidence and Data Collection for Problem Solving

University of Leeds and Institute of Coding via FutureLearn

Overview

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Become a data-driven decision-maker and improve your problem-solving skills

As the digital world plays an increasingly large role in our daily lives, so too does the use of data. It is arguably one of the most valuable commodities in the world, and this two-week course will teach you methods to tap into its potential in your daily life and career.

You’ll be introduced to key data concepts as you learn how to solve everyday problems and make effective decisions using data.

You’ll also develop skills to help you analyse and interpret trends, and produce a plan to solve a real-world problem with evidence and data.

Discover the importance of data collection

To understand why data collection is so valuable, you’ll explore its notion and meaning before learning key terminology.

You’ll consider the differences between data, metadata, and how individual sets of data can come together to form datasets that give you greater insights and an understanding of a situation.

Understand data ethics in real-world situations

It’s important to explore the ethics and rules of using other people’s data so you understand the restrictions to adhere to.

You’ll examine how data is created, shared, and used in surprising ways before debating the ethical considerations of data collection.

You’ll also learn how to present data in a meaningful way that’s easy to understand through data visualisation techniques. To give real-world context to your learning, you’ll study these data concepts through the case study of a small business owner.

Whether you’re entering the world of work or forging a new career for yourself, this course will help prepare you for the fast-moving digital space.

This course is designed for people looking to work with data to progress in their current role or to enter the digital workplace.

It will help you build confidence in using digital technology and boost your digital skills.

Syllabus

  • What is data?
    • Welcome to the course
    • Garbage in, garbage out: the importance of interpretation
    • Using data to solve problems
    • Datasets and interpretation
    • Summary
  • Using data
    • Welcome to Week 2
    • Data and ethics
    • Planning to solve a problem with evidence and data
    • The role of visualisation techniques when using data
    • Summary

Taught by

Molly Bridge

Reviews

4.3 rating, based on 6 Class Central reviews

4.7 rating at FutureLearn based on 186 ratings

Start your review of Evidence and Data Collection for Problem Solving

  • Anonymous
    I recently completed this online course and found it to be an enriching experience. The course provided practical insights into how data can be effectively gathered and analyzed to solve real-world problems. The modules were well-structured, with clear explanations and relevant examples that made complex concepts accessible. I particularly appreciated the focus on ethical data practices, which is crucial in today's digital age. Overall, this course has enhanced my ability to leverage data professionally and personally.
    I highly recommend it to anyone looking to improve their data-driven decision-making skills.
  • Anonymous
    The University of Leeds 'Evidence and Data Collection for Problem Solving' course on Future Learn offers a comprehensive overview of data collection methods, equipping learners with the skills to gather and analyze evidence for effective problem-solving. The course's engaging format and practical exercises make it a valuable resource for professionals and students alike. providing a solid foundation for evidence-based decision-making. Whether you're a researcher, a manager, or simply someone who wants to improve their problem-solving skills, this course is a worthwhile investment.
  • Anonymous
    I am giving four stars because i was looking forward to learning how to use data analysis tools like excel and power bi which this course only brushed upon. However it was very interactive, the assignments given were very enlightening, the course was thorough on teaching ethics and making sure learners used their own minds to figure the best way to approach solutions in trying to solve the problems of the business model.
  • Anonymous
    This was an interesting course, but I think it would be useful if a lecturer could provide some examples/ suggested answers to some of the questions throughout the course, so that we know we have understood something correctly rather than just relying on comments from other users (especially when there are no comments!). Occasionally an example is given and I found that very helpful.
  • Anonymous
    Good course, however one of the assignments wasn't clear, also one of the questions in the final test wasn't clear and could be interpreted differently
  • Anonymous
    Very informative course that can give you the right skills needed in data collection to be used for problem solving.

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