Python for Social Data Science

Overview

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Short description

Python for Social Data Science will introduce participants to basic computer programming skills for social data analysis. In particular, it will introduce participants to the Python programming language, which is a state-of-the-art tool for data analysis. The aim is for participants to acquire basic programming skills.

On successful completion of this CPD, participants will be able to:

• Describe basic programming terminology, structures, and conventions.
• Demonstrate familiarity with the Python programming language, including the ability to write, execute and debug scripts for social data analysis.
• Design project workflows through GitHub
• Perform data wrangling and visualization tasks using Python.

On successful completion of the CPD, students will receive a Certificate of Completion

What topics will you cover?

The ‘Python for Social Data Science’ CPD introduces participants to the core programming concepts e.g., functions, variables, conditions, loops, data structures, working with libraries, interacting with APIs. It also covers data management and visualization. Best practices in project workflow and version control will be introduced using GitHub. Participants will engage with the material in a hands-on environment, which will include programming exercises throughout the CPD.

Who is this course for?

The target learner cohort are participants working in the private sector, for example IT, finance, banking sectors. Participants are expected to have some quantitative experience through prior training e.g. degree or equivalent experience, or having taken the CPD “Statistical Thinking for Social Data Analysis”. No prior programming experience is required. Participants should also have access to a laptop with camera and a microphone.

This CPD is part of a programme of Continuous Professional Development in the area of Applied Social Data Analysis that the School of Social Sciences and Philosophy will deliver from Spring 2022. Addressing the scarcity of training in data science in Ireland and co-created with key industry partners, the Applied Social Data Analysis CPD programme trains participants in the fundamental knowledge and skills of social data analysis. The programme goes beyond social data analytics to address causal analysis and consider social issues that are important to industries such as inequality, unemployment, climate change and ethics. This CPD will be of interest to individuals who wish to progress their careers through acquiring valuable social data analysis skills that are widely sought after in the private, public and non-profit sectors.

Who teaches the course?

Dr Tom Paskhalis, Assistant Professor in Political Science and Data Science, Department of Political Science, School of Social Sciences and Philosophy, Trinity College, University of Dublin.

How is the course delivered?

The course will be delivered online over 7 weeks (including one break week).  There will be two 2-hour sessions on Wednesdays and Thursdays from 18:00-20:00 and 1 hour of asynchronous material.  This will be preceded by 2 hours of preparatory online instruction. Additionally participants will undertake 20 hours of self-study over the course of the programme and complete a combination of in-class and 1 take home exercise. Please note there will be no class the week of March 6^th.  In order to be awarded the Certificate of Completion of Python for Social Data Science, participants will need to have completed all required CPD exercises.