A NoCODE Syllabus for Data Science
Why We Should Stop Teaching Coding argues that there’s a better way to teach AI than coding. Just as pilots don’t have to know how to build an engine to fly, not everyone needs to learn to code. So, if not Python, R, or Java, what to teach? How about this:
Why AI Matters
The best way to explain data science is to start with why it matters through case studies and history. For history, start with Florence Nightingale, Data Scientist, and Napoleon’s March on Moscow by Joseph Minard. Tufte’s work are some of the best histories of visual thinking on the planet.
There are many great case studies in this dynamic carousel, including the Mercedes AMG Formula One Racing team, Rome Airport, Panera Bread, Sara Assicurazioni, KBTG Bank in Thailand, and more.
Data Science Thinking
Data science thinking is like Jazz. It’s a collaboration between algorithms and human creativity. Here’s another carousel of resources about data science and tech culture and how to engage with AI as a friend, not a foe:
Analytics For Good
Technology is a force for good. There are so many great open data projects and diversity programs like Missing Maps, which uses the power of technology and collaboration to help humanitarian organizations reach those in need. President Obama’s Open Data Initiative resulted in recent public transportation innovation. And commercial projects like analytics for renewable wind energy are well underway.
Here are more examples of analytics for good. The list keeps growing!
NoCODE = NOT ONLY Coding
The “easter egg” of this post is calling this a NoCODE curriculum. Technology insiders know one of our acronyms, NoSQL, means NOT ONLY SQL, not NO SQL. Similarly, an excellent AI and data science curriculum is built NOT ONLY on coding.
NO-CODE also refers to a set of tools that require little coding. Most will know Excel and Google Sheets, and what we call Hyperconverged Analytics are advanced forms of No-Code tools. The vital part of using these No-Code tools is to learn how to tell stories with data, rather than getting bogged down in the coding. Here’s more on No-Code tools for data and analytics:
