Course Description
"Data Science for the Built Environment" is an innovative and highly relevant course designed specifically for professionals in the architecture, engineering, construction, and facilities management fields. This course bridges the gap between traditional data analysis methods and the cutting-edge world of data science, focusing on the unique challenges and opportunities within the built environment sector.
What Students Will Learn
- The importance of data science in the built environment
- Python programming fundamentals
- Data analysis using the Pandas library
- Data visualization techniques
- Basic machine learning concepts applied to building data
- Time-series data analysis from IoT sensors
- Parametric analysis for integrated design processes
- Processing and analyzing occupant comfort data
- Various applications of data science across building life cycle phases
Prerequisites
This course is designed for beginners with little to no previous programming experience. There are no specific prerequisites, making it accessible to a wide range of professionals in the built environment sector.
Course Coverage
- Introduction to Python programming
- Overview of the Pandas data analysis library
- Data loading, processing, and merging techniques
- Data visualization for building-related information
- Basic machine learning concepts and applications
- Parametric analysis for integrated design processes
- Time-series data analysis from IoT sensors
- Analysis of thermal comfort data from occupants
- Examples of data science applications in various building-related tasks
Who This Course Is For
- Architects
- Engineers
- Construction managers
- Facilities managers
- Built environment professionals looking to enhance their data analysis skills
- Anyone interested in applying data science to the building industry
Real-World Applications
- Optimizing building energy performance
- Improving occupant comfort and well-being
- Enhancing construction project management
- Analyzing and predicting building maintenance needs
- Developing data-driven design strategies
- Implementing smart building technologies
- Conducting energy audits and assessments
- Improving building operations and facility management
- Integrating IoT data for better decision-making
- Applying machine learning for predictive maintenance and optimization
Syllabus
Section 1: Introduction to Course and Python Fundamentals
- Overview of key Python concepts
- Motivations for building industry professionals to learn coding
- Introduction to the NZEB at NUS School of Design and Environment
Section 2: Introduction to the Pandas Data Analytics Library and Design Phase Application Example
- Foundational functions of Pandas
- Application in the integrated design process
- Processing data from parametric EnergyPlus models
- Future learning paths for the Design Phase
Section 3: Pandas Analysis of Time-Series Data from IoT and Construction Phase Application Example
- Time-series analysis using Pandas
- Analysis of hourly IoT data from electrical energy meters
- Future learning paths for the Construction Phase
Section 4: Statistics and Visualization Basics and Operations Phase Application Example
- Statistical aggregations and visualization techniques
- Analysis of occupant comfort data using ASHRAE Thermal Comfort Database II
- Future learning paths for the Operations Phase
Section 5: Introduction to Machine Learning for the Built Environment
- Overview of prediction opportunities in the built environment
- Prediction, classification, and clustering using sci-kit learn library
- Application to electrical meter and occupant comfort data
- Suggestions for further learning in Python, Data Science, and Statistics