From 10 to 14 February a blended intensive program for students - BIP - "Data Unlocked: Mastering Data Analysis Methods and Storytelling" took place at Vidzeme University of Applied Sciences (ViA).
The first meeting of the BIP took place online, during which participants were introduced with ViA, as well as given an introduction to the content of the intensive programme.
During the week the participants held various seminars and workshops focusing on quantitative and qualitative data processing methods, as well as scientific communication – storytelling and also improving presentation skills. Students practically work with publicly available data, which is another objective of the program – to get acquainted with them and understand the use of open data in research. Before receiving the certificate, students gave a report – a presentation on the results on the closing day, so that they could immediately apply the skills learned during the intensive week.
During the week the students worked and was also evaluated by Professor, Dr.sc.comm. Jānis Buholcs, Associate Professor in Dr. Psych. Vineta Silkāne, Lecturer, Mg.sc.soc. Liene Ločmele, as well as external experts – sociologist, PhD. Luīze Ratniece and Darja Aksionova, Senior Expert of the European National Contact Point of the Latvian Science Council, Department for International Cooperation.
Information and Communication Technologies study field director Māra Arāja says: “It is a pleasure to see that past researchers are deeply interested in various data analysis methods. Participants had to work very intensively in order to get a comprehensive understanding of both quantitative and qualitative data processing methods in a short period of time. I believe that this has also opened them up to a broader view of potential research methods to use in their work. It is pleasant to receive feedback that this week has helped with ideas on how to continue developing your bachelor's or master's theses, created new research opportunities and quite simply – learned to “date” less.”
