Fundamentals of Data Analytics in the Public Sector with R

Go to Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/fundamentals-of-data-analytics-in-the-public-sector-with-r

Introduction

### Course Review: Fundamentals of Data Analytics in the Public Sector with R If you're looking to deepen your understanding of data analytics within the realm of public administration, “Fundamentals of Data Analytics in the Public Sector with R” on Coursera is an excellent option. This course effectively combines essential concepts in public administration and public policy with hands-on programming skills using R, one of the most powerful tools for data analysis. #### Overview Public sector decision-making increasingly relies on data analytics, making it imperative for professionals in this field to be well-versed in analytical techniques. This course lays a solid foundation, teaching you key terms and concepts related to public administration while introducing fundamental R programming skills. Throughout the course, emphasis is placed on using the tidyverse libraries, particularly the dplyr package, to manipulate and analyze data frames. By the end, you will have the capability to create custom functions and apply them to relevant population data, which is a crucial aspect of public sector analytics. #### Week-by-Week Breakdown - **Week 1: Introduction to Data Analytics in the Public Sector with R** In the introductory week, the course sets the stage for what's to come. You will familiarize yourself with essential terms and concepts that will recur throughout the curriculum. It's a gentle start that prepares you for the more technical skills to be acquired in subsequent weeks. - **Week 2: Core Functions of Public Administration and R Basics** This week dives into the core functions of public administration and highlights the importance of data analytics in fulfilling these functions. You’ll also begin your journey into RStudio, where you'll learn foundational programming skills that will be invaluable in later modules. - **Week 3: Survey Data Analysis with the Tidyverse** Survey data analysis is crucial in the public sector, and here you will learn both how to design surveys and analyze the data collected. This week focuses on the practical skills necessary to interpret survey data effectively, which will empower you to derive meaningful insights from public data sources. - **Week 4: Population Data Analysis with Custom R Functions** Building upon the skills learned in the previous weeks, this module teaches you how to work with population data specifically. You’ll create custom R functions tailored to address common population-related inquiries, further enhancing your analytical capabilities. - **Week 5: Public Sector Data Analytics in Practice** The final week brings together all the knowledge you’ve gathered. You’ll hear real-world stories from public sector data analysts, offering insights into the challenges and opportunities faced in the field. This perspective enhances your understanding of how theoretical knowledge is applied in practical scenarios. #### Recommendations This course comes highly recommended for several reasons: 1. **Comprehensive Curriculum**: It balances theoretical understanding with practical R programming skills, making it suitable for both beginners and those looking to refine their data analytics abilities. 2. **Practical Application**: The focus on real-world applications—especially through stories from working analysts—grounds the concepts in reality, helping you appreciate the relevance of the skills you're learning. 3. **Strong Foundation for Future Learning**: Whether you’re aiming for a career in public administration, policy analysis, or data science, this course provides a substantial foundation that will serve you well in future data-centric roles or courses. 4. **Engaging Content**: The course is designed to be engaging and informative, ensuring that you remain interested and motivated throughout the weeks. In conclusion, “Fundamentals of Data Analytics in the Public Sector with R” offers invaluable insights and skills that are essential in today’s data-driven public sector landscape. If you are keen on making data-driven decisions and improving your analytical skills, enrolling in this course is undoubtedly a step in the right direction.

Syllabus

Week 1 | Introduction to Data Analytics in the Public Sector with R

Welcome to the Data Analytics in the Public Sector with R and the First Course—Fundamentals of Public Sector Data Analysis with R. This week will be your orientation to the certificate and the first course. You will also get to learn several fundamental terms and their definitions that we will frequently use throughout the course and the certificate.

Welcome to Week 2! You will start this week learning about the core functions of public administration and the role of data analytics in these functions. You will also start developing your skills with RStudio.

Welcome to Week 3! You will learn this week several analysis skills for survey data—one of the most common types of data in the public sector. These skills will allow you to not only understand how survey data could be designed and collected, but also how to analyze such data in RStudio and how to interpret them.

Welcome to Week 4! You will learn this week several analysis skills for population data—one of the most common types of data in the public sector that allow answering basic population questions. These skills will allow you to not only understand the sources of population data, but also how to analyze such data in RStudio and how to interpret them.

Welcome to Week 5, the last week in this course! This week, you will get to hear stories from public sector data analysts, with the goal of recognizing the challenges associated with the profession of a data analyst.