Introduction to Big Data

Go to Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/big-data-introduction

Introduction

### Course Review: Introduction to Big Data on Coursera **Overview:** The "Introduction to Big Data" course offered on Coursera is an insightful entry point for individuals eager to explore the expansive realm of data science and the Big Data phenomenon. Designed specifically for those who are new to the field, this course is a treasure trove of knowledge for anyone looking to understand the significance of Big Data in today's world. With a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical applications, the course not only lays the foundation of key concepts but also stirs curiosity about how Big Data can be leveraged within various business contexts. **Course Structure and Content:** The course is structured into several modules, each building on the previous one, providing a comprehensive understanding of Big Data. Here’s a brief overview of what each module covers: 1. **Welcome:** The journey begins with a warm introduction, setting a friendly tone for learning and offering a chance for students to connect. 2. **Big Data: Why and Where:** This module dives into the origins of Big Data, answering the essential questions about what makes data “big” and the sources of this expansive data landscape. It gives students a historical context that enriches their understanding. 3. **Characteristics of Big Data and Dimensions of Scalability:** Here, learners are introduced to the "Big Vs" - commonly discussed dimensions that define Big Data. The module also encourages students to engage by considering a sixth dimension: value, prompting reflection on the practical implications of Big Data. 4. **Data Science: Getting Value out of Big Data:** This core module emphasizes the application of Big Data to derive actionable insights. A well-defined five-step process for tackling data science problems is introduced, providing a systematic approach to problem-solving that is invaluable for beginners. 5. **Foundations for Big Data Systems and Programming:** While prior programming knowledge is not a prerequisite, this module offers foundational concepts that are essential for understanding the systems that underpin Big Data. 6. **Systems: Getting Started with Hadoop:** The final module of the course allows students to engage with Hadoop and MapReduce. Through hands-on tasks, learners get the chance to apply their knowledge, reinforcing theoretical concepts through practical application. **Why You Should Take This Course:** - **Accessibility:** The course is designed for beginners, making it incredibly approachable for those without prior experience in data science or programming. - **Practical Application:** The hands-on learning approach, especially in the Hadoop module, ensures that students can connect theory with real-world applications. - **Networking Opportunities:** The welcome module fosters a sense of community, allowing participants to network and share insights, which can be beneficial for personal growth and career opportunities. - **Value-Driven Knowledge:** By focusing not just on technical skills but also on the value derived from Big Data, students are equipped to think strategically about data utilization in their professional lives. **Recommendation:** I highly recommend the "Introduction to Big Data" course on Coursera for anyone looking to start their journey into data science. Whether you are a professional seeking to enhance your skills, a business owner curious about the implications of data in your sector, or simply someone interested in this burgeoning field, this course provides a solid foundation to understand and appreciate the significance of Big Data. Through its structured approach and combination of theory and practice, this course is not only educational but also empowering. By the end of it, you will emerge with a richer understanding of Big Data and how it can be applied effectively in various contexts, setting the stage for deeper exploration in the field. Enroll today and unlock the potential of Big Data in your career!

Syllabus

Welcome

Welcome to the Big Data Specialization! We're excited for you to get to know us and we're looking forward to learning about you!

Data -- it's been around (even digitally) for a while. What makes data "big" and where does this big data come from?

You may have heard of the "Big Vs". We'll give examples and descriptions of the commonly discussed 5. But, we want to propose a 6th V and we'll ask you to practice writing Big Data questions targeting this V -- value.

We love science and we love computing, don't get us wrong. But the reality is we care about Big Data because it can bring value to our companies, our lives, and the world. In this module we'll introduce a 5 step process for approaching data science problems.

Big Data requires new programming frameworks and systems. For this course, we don't programming knowledge or experience -- but we do want to give you a grounding in some of the key concepts.

Let's look at some details of Hadoop and MapReduce. Then we'll go "hands on" and actually perform a simple MapReduce task in the Cloudera VM. Pay attention - as we'll guide you in "learning by doing" in diagramming a MapReduce task as a Peer Review.