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Thematic Inquiry
This course introduces the use of data as means to create information and knowledge in a variety of contexts. Students will learn about data analysis, the responsible use of data, data collection in their own lives, and how to communicate results and findings. As part of the course, students will identify an animating question or research theme to focus their future studies, global/local engagement and study away. Students will also complete a course that focuses on data analysis and interpretation of data, ideally prior to completing the Thematic Inquiry seminar.
Global/Local Engagement
Global and local engagement options are limitless, as the use of data to facilitate evidence-based decision-making is relevant—and likely beneficial—in nearly any context. A student with an interest in architectural studies might use data visualization techniques while studying well-known buildings abroad, for example, while another student might complete an internship with a company that manages large data sets. Students could work in private, public or academic research labs anywhere in the world, or partner with a community organization to analyze local food distribution and usage. Data analysis and interpretation might be employed in any off-campus organization, either locally or globally.
Senior Reflection
In this two-credit seminar, students will focus on their experiences with data-related work in the Pathway, prepare to present at the All-College Symposium and consider how they may apply their knowledge of data and data analysis in the future.
Data, Information and Society
Explore how society uses and interacts with data to understand and navigate the world.
Humans have always used data to help them understand and navigate the world. In recent years, advances in technology, computing power and internet accessibility have rapidly increased the importance of data on a societal level. Today, data can be gathered and applied to address almost anything, from science to politics and sports to literature.
In this Pathway, students will develop data literacy and learn to interpret and analyze data themselves. They will acquire the skills to use data to draw inferences, make informed judgements and decisions, and clearly communicate. They will explore the ways society uses and interacts with data to form evidence-based arguments; the relationship between data, privacy and morality; the role of data in social justice; the rapidly expanding role of big data in both the public and private sectors; and how data analysis, like any tool, can be used in unethical ways that may ultimately undermine knowledge.
Sana Bhat '26
Data, Information and Society Pathway
While students construct their own animating questions, some recent examples include:
What role does big data play in the ethical decisions made in the medical industry?
How can we develop unbiased and non-discriminatory machine learning algorithms?
How has the psychology of economic decision-making been influenced through big data?
How can data analysis inform healthier positive marketing strategies for consumer products within marginalized communities?
How has our society created a world in which women earn significantly less than men?
How much information can be found about people for free using the internet?
Pathway Requirements
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Thematic Inquiry
This course introduces the use of data as means to create information and knowledge in a variety of contexts. Students will learn about data analysis, the responsible use of data, data collection in their own lives, and how to communicate results and findings. As part of the course, students will identify an animating question or research theme to focus their future studies, global/local engagement and study away. Students will also complete a course that focuses on data analysis and interpretation of data, ideally prior to completing the Thematic Inquiry seminar.
Global/Local Engagement
Global and local engagement options are limitless, as the use of data to facilitate evidence-based decision-making is relevant—and likely beneficial—in nearly any context. A student with an interest in architectural studies might use data visualization techniques while studying well-known buildings abroad, for example, while another student might complete an internship with a company that manages large data sets. Students could work in private, public or academic research labs anywhere in the world, or partner with a community organization to analyze local food distribution and usage. Data analysis and interpretation might be employed in any off-campus organization, either locally or globally.
Senior Reflection
In this two-credit seminar, students will focus on their experiences with data-related work in the Pathway, prepare to present at the All-College Symposium and consider how they may apply their knowledge of data and data analysis in the future.
Pathway Courses
All students in the Pathway will complete at least three Pathway courses, based on their specific interests and animating questions. Examples include:
