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Elle O'Brien

How to Describe Data examines the use of data in our everyday lives, giving you the ability to assess the usefulness and relevance of the information you encounter. In this course, learn about uncertainty’s role in measurements and how you can develop a critical eye toward evaluating statistical information in places like headlines, advertisements, and research. You’ll learn the fundamentals of discussing, evaluating, and presenting a wide range of data sets, as well as how data helps us make sense of the world. This is a broad overview of statistics and is designed for those with no previous experience in data analysis. With this course, you’ll be able to spot potentially misleading statistics and better interpret claims about data you encounter in the world. Course assessments focus on your understanding of concepts rather than solving math problems.

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How to Describe Data examines the use of data in our everyday lives, giving you the ability to assess the usefulness and relevance of the information you encounter. In this course, learn about uncertainty’s role in measurements and how you can develop a critical eye toward evaluating statistical information in places like headlines, advertisements, and research. You’ll learn the fundamentals of discussing, evaluating, and presenting a wide range of data sets, as well as how data helps us make sense of the world. This is a broad overview of statistics and is designed for those with no previous experience in data analysis. With this course, you’ll be able to spot potentially misleading statistics and better interpret claims about data you encounter in the world. Course assessments focus on your understanding of concepts rather than solving math problems.

This is the first course in Understanding Data: Navigating Statistics, Science, and AI Specialization, where you’ll gain a core foundation for statistical and data literacy and gain an understanding of the data we encounter in our everyday lives.

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What's inside

Syllabus

Welcome, Introduction & What Makes a Statistic Useful?
Rethinking Certainty
Talking about Numbers
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Statistics, Skepticism and Trust

Good to know

Know what's good
, what to watch for
, and possible dealbreakers
Geared for learners without a statistics background, this course strikes a balance between accessibility and comprehensiveness
Taught by Elle O'Brien, who are recognized for their work in statistics education
Serves as a foundation for the Understanding Data: Navigating Statistics, Science, and AI Specialization
Develops critical thinking skills for evaluating statistical information encountered in everyday life
May require a specific interest in data analysis to fully engage with the content
Focuses on understanding concepts rather than solving mathematical problems

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Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in How to Describe Data with these activities:
Review Basic Probability and Statistics
Ensure a solid foundation by reviewing the fundamentals of probability and statistics before starting the course.
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  • Review concepts such as probability distributions, hypothesis testing, and regression.
  • Solve practice problems to reinforce your understanding.
Read "How to Lie with Statistics"
Become aware of the potential pitfalls and biases in statistics to make more informed decisions based on data.
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  • Read and understand the main arguments of the book.
  • Identify examples of misleading statistics in everyday life.
Excel Math
Refine your Excel skills to ensure that you are ready for this course.
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  • Review basic Excel functions and formulas
  • Develop proficiency in data manipulation techniques
Six other activities
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Learn Data Visualization Techniques
Enhance your ability to present data effectively by learning industry-standard data visualization techniques.
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  • Explore different types of data visualizations.
  • Learn best practices for choosing the right visualization for different types of data.
  • Gain proficiency in using a data visualization tool.
Solve Real-World Data Problems
Hone your data analysis skills by solving problems that mirror real-world scenarios.
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  • Identify the problem and define the variables.
  • Collect and clean the data.
  • Analyze the data using statistical techniques.
  • Interpret the results and draw conclusions.
Create a Data Story
Develop your ability to communicate data insights effectively by creating a compelling data story.
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  • Choose a dataset that interests you.
  • Explore the data and identify patterns and trends.
  • Develop a narrative that explains the insights you've found.
  • Create a visual representation of your data story.
Join a Study Group
Connect with fellow learners to discuss course concepts, share insights, and support each other's learning.
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  • Find a study group or create your own.
  • Meet regularly to discuss course materials.
  • Work together on assignments or projects.
Volunteer at a Data Analytics Organization
Gain hands-on experience and make a meaningful contribution by volunteering your skills at a data analytics organization.
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  • Research and identify volunteer opportunities.
  • Apply for and secure a volunteer position.
  • Contribute to data analytics projects under the guidance of experienced professionals.
Contribute to Open-Source Data Projects
Enhance your skills and contribute to the data community by getting involved in open-source data projects.
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  • Identify open-source data projects that align with your interests.
  • Review the project documentation and code.
  • Contribute to the project by fixing bugs or adding new features.

Career center

Learners who complete How to Describe Data will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

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