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Discovering Data Science

Data science skills are in-demand. Take our Data Science Basics course and learn the concepts and terms that you'll need to step into the world of data science.

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Complete hands-on projects and get personalized feedback with Udacity.

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Syllabus

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Introduces a field that has a high growth rate and demand in industry and academia

Builds a foundation for beginners in the field of data science

Taught through Udacity, a provider known for its tech and data science courses

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Reviews summary

Foundational data science for beginners

According to students, 'Discovering Data Science' is an excellent starting point for absolute beginners in the field. Learners consistently highlight the course's clear, concise explanations that demystify complex data science concepts and provide a strong fundamental vocabulary. Many appreciate how well-structured the modules are and the engaging approach of the instructor. While recent reviews reinforce its strength for novices, some feedback indicates that those with prior exposure to programming or statistics may find the content too basic and theoretical, wishing for more hands-on exercises or practical application. The course effectively sets a base, but additional resources are needed for deeper technical skills.

The instructor's presentation style is highly engaging.

"The instructor's passion for the subject truly shines through."

"The instructor is knowledgeable and presents the material in an engaging way."

Builds a strong vocabulary and understanding of core terms.

"It covers a wide range of topics without going too deep, which is perfect for a 'discovering' course."

"I feel like I've gained a fundamental vocabulary and a clear roadmap for further learning."

"It sets a good base, but be prepared to seek out other resources for actual coding or in-depth statistical analysis. It's truly a 'basics' course."

Concepts are broken down and easy to understand.

"The lectures are clear, concise, and break down complex ideas into manageable pieces."

"The explanations were easy to follow and the pace was just right."

"I appreciated the clear explanations of complex terms."

An accessible introduction ideal for new learners.

"This course is an excellent starting point for anyone curious about data science."

"I had zero background in data science and this course opened my eyes. The modules were structured logically..."

"Fantastic! As a complete newbie, I was intimidated by data science, but this course made it accessible."

Additional quizzes and updated references could enhance the course.

"I wish there were more quizzes to test understanding as I went along."

"Felt a bit outdated in some references too."

Content might be overly superficial for those with prior knowledge.

"It's an okay course for an absolute beginner, but if you have any prior exposure to statistics or programming, you might find it too basic."

"This course barely scratches the surface. It's more like a very long glossary than a course."

"Good overview for someone completely new to the field... It's truly a 'basics' course."

More conceptual overview, less hands-on coding or exercises.

"My only minor feedback is that a bit more hands-on exercises, even simple ones, would have made it even better for practical application."

"While it covers a lot of terms, I felt it was very high-level and lacked practical examples."

"I was expecting a bit more hands-on activities, even just small ones. If you're looking for theory only, it's fine, but for application, look elsewhere."

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 Discovering Data Science with these activities:

Review: Data Science for Beginners

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Build a foundational understanding of data science concepts by reading a beginner-friendly book.

View Introduction R Programming_Professional Level on Amazon

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Read the book and take notes on key concepts
Complete the practice exercises in the book
Summarize the main ideas of each chapter

Attend a Data Science Meetup

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Connect with professionals in the field and expand your knowledge through discussions and presentations.

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Find a local data science meetup or online event
Attend the event and introduce yourself to others
Participate in discussions and ask questions

Guided Tutorials on Data Science Basics

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Introduce yourself to foundational topics in data science including data cleansing, modeling, and interpretation.

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Explore online tutorials on data science fundamentals
Follow along with video demonstrations to practice techniques
Review tutorial materials for reinforcement

Four other activities

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Study Group for Data Science Concepts

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Enhance your comprehension by collaborating with peers, discussing concepts, and working through problems together.

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Find or create a study group with other students taking the course
Meet regularly to discuss course material and assignments
Work together on practice problems and projects

Data Science Practice Drills

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Reinforce your understanding of data science techniques through repetitive exercises and practical examples.

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Solve data science challenges on online platforms
Work through guided practice exercises in the course materials
Complete coding challenges using data science tools

Data Science Blog Post

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Solidify your understanding by creating a written piece that explains a data science concept or technique.

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Choose a topic relevant to data science basics
Research and gather information on the topic
Write a blog post that explains the concept clearly
Publish your blog post on a platform or share it with peers

Contribute to Open Source Data Science Projects

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Gain practical experience and enhance your understanding by contributing to real-world data science projects.

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Identify open source data science projects on platforms like GitHub
Review the project documentation and choose an area to contribute
Make code contributions, write documentation, or report bugs

Career center

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

Data Scientist

A Data Scientist is someone who has the ability to think critically about data, ask the right questions, and find patterns that lead to actionable insights. The Discovering Data Science course can help you develop the skills you need to become a successful Data Scientist by providing you with a strong foundation in the fundamental concepts and terms of data science.

See salaries and explore the career path for Data Scientist

Data Analyst

A Data Analyst is responsible for collecting, cleaning, and analyzing data to help businesses make informed decisions. The Discovering Data Science course can help you develop the skills you need to become a successful Data Analyst by providing you with a strong foundation in the fundamental concepts and terms of data science.

See salaries and explore the career path for Data Analyst

Machine Learning Engineer

A Machine Learning Engineer is responsible for building and deploying machine learning models to solve business problems. The Discovering Data Science course can help you develop the skills you need to become a successful Machine Learning Engineer by providing you with a strong foundation in the fundamental concepts and terms of data science.

See salaries and explore the career path for Machine Learning Engineer

Data Engineer

A Data Engineer is responsible for building and maintaining the infrastructure that stores and processes data. The Discovering Data Science course can help you develop the skills you need to become a successful Data Engineer by providing you with a strong foundation in the fundamental concepts and terms of data science.

See salaries and explore the career path for Data Engineer

Statistician

A Statistician is responsible for collecting, analyzing, and interpreting data to help organizations make informed decisions. The Discovering Data Science course can help you develop the skills you need to become a successful Statistician by providing you with a strong foundation in the fundamental concepts and terms of data science.

See salaries and explore the career path for Statistician

Quantitative Analyst

A Quantitative Analyst is responsible for using mathematical and statistical models to analyze financial data and make investment recommendations. The Discovering Data Science course can help you develop the skills you need to become a successful Quantitative Analyst by providing you with a strong foundation in the fundamental concepts and terms of data science.

See salaries and explore the career path for Quantitative Analyst

Risk Analyst

A Risk Analyst is responsible for identifying, assessing, and mitigating risks to an organization. The Discovering Data Science course can help you develop the skills you need to become a successful Risk Analyst by providing you with a strong foundation in the fundamental concepts and terms of data science.

See salaries and explore the career path for Risk Analyst

Business Analyst

A Business Analyst is responsible for understanding business needs and translating them into technical requirements. The Discovering Data Science course can help you develop the skills you need to become a successful Business Analyst by providing you with a strong foundation in the fundamental concepts and terms of data science.

See salaries and explore the career path for Business Analyst

Product Manager

A Product Manager is responsible for managing the development and launch of new products. The Discovering Data Science course can help you develop the skills you need to become a successful Product Manager by providing you with a strong foundation in the fundamental concepts and terms of data science.

See salaries and explore the career path for Product Manager

Marketing Analyst

A Marketing Analyst is responsible for collecting, analyzing, and interpreting data to help organizations understand their customers and make marketing decisions. The Discovering Data Science course can help you develop the skills you need to become a successful Marketing Analyst by providing you with a strong foundation in the fundamental concepts and terms of data science.

See salaries and explore the career path for Marketing Analyst

Financial Analyst

A Financial Analyst is responsible for analyzing financial data to make investment recommendations. The Discovering Data Science course may be useful in developing some of the skills you need to become a successful Financial Analyst, but it does not provide a comprehensive foundation in the fundamental concepts and terms of finance.

See salaries and explore the career path for Financial Analyst

Actuary

An Actuary is responsible for assessing and managing financial risks. The Discovering Data Science course may be useful in developing some of the skills you need to become a successful Actuary, but it does not provide a comprehensive foundation in the fundamental concepts and terms of actuarial science.

See salaries and explore the career path for Actuary

Software Engineer

A Software Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining software applications. The Discovering Data Science course may be useful in developing some of the skills you need to become a successful Software Engineer, but it does not provide a comprehensive foundation in the fundamental concepts and terms of software engineering.

See salaries and explore the career path for Software Engineer

Computer Scientist

A Computer Scientist is responsible for developing new computer technologies and applications. The Discovering Data Science course may be useful in developing some of the skills you need to become a successful Computer Scientist, but it does not provide a comprehensive foundation in the fundamental concepts and terms of computer science.

See salaries and explore the career path for Computer Scientist

Data Visualization Specialist

A Data Visualization Specialist is responsible for creating visual representations of data that help organizations understand their data and make decisions. The Discovering Data Science course may be useful in developing some of the skills you need to become a successful Data Visualization Specialist, but it does not provide a comprehensive foundation in the fundamental concepts and terms of data visualization.

See salaries and explore the career path for Data Visualization Specialist

Reading list

We've selected 12 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Discovering Data Science.

The Elements of Statistical Learning

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Comprehensive reference for statistical learning methods, making it a valuable resource for learners who want to develop a deep understanding of the field.

The Elements of Statistical Learning: Data Mining,...

Hardcover

$$$

The Elements of Statistical Learning: Data Mining,...

Hardcover

$$$

The Elements of Statistical Learning: Data Mining,...

Kindle Edition

$$$

Data Science for Business

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Provides a comprehensive overview of data science concepts and techniques, making it a valuable resource for learners who want to gain a strong foundation in the field.

Discovering Data Science

Here's a deal for you

What's inside

Syllabus

Traffic lights

Save this course

Reviews summary

Foundational data science for beginners

Activities

Career center

Reading list

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