Big Data and the Environment
From sources such as satellites, sensors and social media, how can environmental data analytics benefit business and research?
Duration
3 weeksWeekly study
3 hours
Big Data and the Environment
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Use current examples to explore the potential benefits of environmental big data
From weather fluctuations to the spread of an invasive species, what problems can scientists address by analysing these vast data collections? What are the potential benefits for business, research and our daily lives?
Find out about possible career paths and gain insights from industry experts and research scientists working on a range of current projects. From urban planning to monitoring wildlife, explore the complexities of managing and analysing big data to seek innovative solutions.
What topics will you cover?
Week 1: Introduction to big data
- Sources of big data, including satellites for looking at the surface of the Earth
- Environmental analytics and the link to big data
- Computing power, processing and storage for environmental data
Week 2: Data to Discovery
- The importance of open data
- The challenges of working with data
- The skills and knowledge of a data scientist
Week 3: Big and Small Data
- Citizen science for climate simulation and ecology
- Real-life examples of environmental analytics
- The power of visualising data
Learning on this course
On every step of the course you can meet other learners, share your ideas and join in with active discussions in the comments.
What will you achieve?
By the end of the course, you‘ll be able to...
- Explain the characteristics and identify sources of big data
- Explore applications of data in environmental science for business
- Understand the skills necessary to be a data scientist
- Discuss the importance of open data and participate in citizen science
Who is the course for?
This course is aimed at professionals seeking a better understanding of environmental big data and the potential these offer to address key questions and underpin novel solutions for business.
It is also relevant to anyone studying environmental topics with a general interest in big data analytics and the complexities and issues surrounding the collection, curation and application of these vast data sets.
Who will you learn with?
Training manager for the IEA - interested in all things about learning and the environment.
Chief Technology Officer at the Institute for Environmental Analytics. We help all kinds of people to understand and make the most of environmental data!
Who developed the course?
University of Reading
The University of Reading has a reputation for excellence in teaching, research and enterprise.
Institute for Environmental Analytics
A world-leading applied Research and Development organisation, helping customers who understand the opportunities of environmental data analytics to manage risk and improve business.
Endorsers and supporters
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