About this Course

This course offers comprehensive insight into data analysis and statistics, empowering participants like Dario, who used the knowledge to create DATASIMUS—a portal for urban mobility data. The course is delivered through videos and real-life cases, enabling learners to master data use, understanding, and interpretation to aid decision-making in public management.

What Students Will Learn

• Understanding the crucial link between data analysis and decision-making.
• Defining research problems and identifying analytical methods.
• Choosing appropriate data collection and analysis methodologies.
• Interpreting various data visualizations and learning best practices for creating them.
• Developing and evaluating data-driven policies.

Prerequisites

No specific prerequisites are needed. However, participants will require:

1. A computer with internet access and a modern web browser.
2. Alternatively, a mobile phone or tablet with the edX application installed.

Course Coverage

• Link between data analysis and public management decision-making.
• Research problem definition and method selection.
• Data collection and analysis techniques.
• Data visualization and reporting best practices.
• Creating and evaluating data-driven policies.

Who This Course Is For

Individuals interested in the intersection of data analysis and public policy, such as public administrators, NGO workers, and policymakers. This course is also suitable for beginners in data analysis with no prior exposure.

Application of Skills in the Real World

The acquired skills can be leveraged to improve decision-making processes within governmental or non-governmental organizations by utilizing data to formulate effective public policies. It may also enhance personal capabilities in managing projects, interpreting data, and aligning organizational goals with empirical research.

Syllabus

• Module 1: The Importance of Data in Decision Making
• Module 2: Converting Concepts into Measurable Parameters
• Module 3: Understanding Data Analysis
• Module 4: Displaying the Results
• Module 5: Closing the Loop: from Data to Planning