Course Syllabus

📞Contact Information

Instructor: Astrud Reed

Email: astrud.reed@uci.edu

Phone: 949-824-5674

Office: Science Library (Contact for details)

🌐 Online Course Information

Course Location: This course is entirely self-paced and hosted on the Udemy Business platform. All course materials, including lectures, videos, assignments, and quizzes, can be accessed online through Udemy. Resources, quizzes, and discussion boards can also be accessed on Canvas, through the Data GPS page.

Module Schedule: Course materials for each module will be accessible to students from the start of the course. Students can choose to complete each module at their own pace, and there are no strict completion deadlines. However, students are encouraged to follow a regular schedule to ensure consistent progress and course completion.

📘 Course Information

Course Description and Purpose

As an investment into the data driven student success initiative, UCI sees immense value in providing a top-tier data analytics certificate program to campus staff, faculty, and leadership. The MAPSS (UCI Metrics & Analytics Promoting Student Success) Certificate Program will provide applicable, informative learning paths, organized by campus roles, utilizing the Udemy Business Learning platform. The courses will impart vital insights and skills that will aid members of each role in exponentially expanding the ability to perform in their current duties, while also providing enhancements for professional development / career path growth - at no cost to learners. Each MAPSS path will include courses in Data Literacy, Efficacy, Ethics, Data Analytics & Business Intelligence, Career Path Data Specialty, and provide examples of how data is being used in academia, and specifically at UCI. 

🎯 Course Objectives

Upon completing this course, students will be able to:

  1. Develop a strong foundation in data literacy, including an understanding of key concepts, types of data, and their relevance in various contexts.
  2. Understand the fundamental principles of data-driven decision making.
  3. Learn how to present data effectively with a clear goal in mind, and with solid data support.
  4. Gain proficiency in using a range of data-oriented tools and technologies, including spreadsheet software, data analysis platforms, and business intelligence tools.
  5. Recognize the ethical considerations and responsibilities associated with data access, collection, storage, and usage.
  6. Collaborate effectively within a data-driven team or environment, emphasizing teamwork and communication skills.
  7. Cultivate a growth mindset and a lifelong learning attitude to adapt to evolving data landscapes.
  8. Explore various learning resources and communities to continue building data literacy beyond this course.

🌟Major Topics

Module 1: Introduction to Data Culture

This module introduces the concept of data culture and its significance. Students will explore the Data Culture Initiative at UCI and understand the importance of data-driven decision-making.

Module 2: Data Literacy, Ethics, and Efficacy

In this module, students delve into the fundamentals of data literacy, ethics, and the efficacy of data-driven decision-making. They will explore the key principles and benefits of data literacy, distinguish between data types, and learn about statistical analysis and data visualization.

Module 3: Tools to Develop a Lifelong Learning Mindset

This module focuses on equipping students with the mindset and tools needed for continuous learning in the data-driven world. Topics include growth mindset, effective study techniques, and understanding the UCI data ecosystem.

Module 4: Data Ecosystem Key Components

Students will gain an understanding of the essential components of the data ecosystem, including data pipelines, data warehousing, and cloud computing. They will explore tools and resources for data management and analysis.

Module 5: Building Skills for Data-Driven Decision Making

This module focuses on developing practical skills for data-driven decision-making. Students will learn problem-solving techniques, explore decision-making styles, and understand the role of emotional intelligence. Collaboration and strategic thinking are also emphasized.

⏩Course Sequencing 

This is the first course in a series of three courses of the MAPSS Certificate Program.

📝Course Requirements

Technical Requirements

  1. Udemy Account: Students must have access to an active Udemy account, as the entire course is hosted on the Udemy platform.
  2. Web Browser: A modern web browser (e.g. Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Safari, or Microsoft Edge) is required to access the course materials, view videos, and participate in quizzes and discussions.

Optional Data Tools: While not mandatory, students interested in deeper data analysis may benefit from access to software tools like Microsoft Power BI, Tableau, or Microsoft Excel. These tools can be helpful for creating data visualizations and working with real-world data.