Welcome to Data Science using R (2022)


Description:

Most quantitative research projects involve both case-specific programming tasks as well as data analysis of a more standard nature. When working with quantitative data it is moreover essential to be able to do so in a systematic and reproducible manner with trustworthy software. This course aims at introducing the free program R as a computational environment for integrating these tasks. R has for two decades been a leading tool for computing with data and it is the preferred language for implementation of new statistical methodology.


The course will cover the practice of scientific computing, programming, and quantitative analyses as well as the essential theoretical underpinnings.
The topics of the course will include.

  • Introducing R as a statistical programming environment for data analysis.
  • Efficient data management using R.
  • High-level graphics in R.
  • Statistical models in R
  • Aspects of scientific computing in theory and practice.
  • Reproducible research in practice
  • Programming in R and vectorized computations.
  • Optional (if time permits) Matrix factorizations and other numerical methods in R. Easy integration of C++ code in R.

IMPORTANT: Prerequisites: Participants must have a working knowledge of elementary statistical methods such as regression models and analysis of variance at the level taught e.g. in the "applied statistics" course described at  http://asta.math.aau.dk/ 

Learning objectives:
  After completing the course the participants will 1. be able to solve programming tasks with R. 2. know how to manage data, visualize data and fit models to data using R. 3. have learned enough about R to continue learning on their own.

Teaching methods:
 A combination of instructive videos, computer practicals and lectures.

Criteria for assessment:
  Active participation in the practicals + approval of major exercise (to be handed in after the course).

Frequently asked questions:

  • Q: I am from outside AAU and wish to sign up for the course. What do I do?
  • A: You click on "signup" and fill out the form.
  • Q: I can not get the steps above to work. Who can help?
  • A: You will have to ask the doctoral school: aauphd@adm.aau.dk
  • Q: If I participate in the course, can you then help me analyze a dataset that I work with as part of my ph.d. project.
  • A: No, I am afraid that this is not possible
  • Q: I am not a ph.d. student, but I would like to participate in the course anyway. Is that possible?
  • A: You will have to ask the doctoral school: aauphd@adm.aau.dk
  • Q: I realize that I am late for enrollment, but I would really like to participate. Is it possible.
  • A: You will have to ask the doctoral school: aauphd@adm.aau.dk  

Organizers:
Søren Højsgaard, Mads Lindskou og Ege Rubak 

ECTS: 4

Time: April 6, 7, 20, 21 and May 4, 5, 2022

  • April 6 and 7,  Frb. 7A4.106,
  • April 20 and 21, and May 4 and 5 Frb 7A4.108 


Place: Aalborg University

Zip code: 9220

City: Aalborg

Number of seats: 40

Deadline: March 23, 2022


Important information concerning PhD courses: We have over some time experienced problems with no-show for both project and general courses. It has now reached a point where we are forced to take action. Therefore, the Doctoral School has decided to introduce a no-show fee of DKK 3.000 for each course where the student does not show up. Cancellations are accepted no later than 2 weeks before start of the course. Registered illness is of course an acceptable reason for not showing up on those days. Furthermore, all courses open for registration approximately four months before start. This can hopefully also provide new students a chance to register for courses during the year. We look forward to your registrations.