Welcome
This is the future home of course materials (readings, links, etc.) for the ITDA curriculum.
For now, some material will be directly accessed in Blackboard or Notion, as well as in other locations.
Grades and assignments, as well as all other material required by Western, will always be available in your Blackboard course.
This program tries to strike the proper balance between theory and practical application, but with an emphasis on the application and tools (software/programming) that are used to do data analytics. These tools might vary depending on where you work and are also constantly evolving. That's why it's also important to learn the proper mindset and some fundamental knowledge that transcend any particular software package. That said, we currently try to stress the following skills: MS Excel, SQL (Structured Query Language), Data Visualization and Storytelling using Power BI, a good grounding in basic quantitative reasoning and statistical methods, and some fundamental skills in a programming language (Python).
Additionally, the program carries an advisory board with representatives from local employers such as KwikTrip, Emplify, and Inland Packaging who all hire employees with similar skill sets developed within the program. In addition, I try to incorporate local experts & speakers into the courses where I'm able and make the courses as relevant to individual student interests as possible. There is a transfer agreement with Viterbo in place if you wish to earn a bachelor's degree, and there has historically been a "Data Analytics Day" hosted in the fall at Viterbo to learn more about this opportunity as well as hear directly from local organizations about how they implement data analytics concepts.
Lastly, the program is designed to prepare you to pass the Data+ industry certification, and give you a head start with earning the following Microsoft credentials: