Getting Started#
Data science research involves using scientific methods, algorithms, and systems to extract knowledge and insights from structured and unstructured data. If you’re interested in getting started in data science research, there are a few key steps you can take:
✔ Develop a strong foundation in the skills and tools used in data science, such as programming languages like Python and R, statistics, and machine learning.
✔ Identify a specific problem or area of interest within the field of data science and start learning more about it.
✔ Read academic papers and other research in your chosen area to gain a better understanding of the current state of the field and identify potential areas for further study.
✔ Develop a research question or hypothesis, and use the skills and tools you’ve learned to collect and analyze data in order to test your hypothesis and draw conclusions.
✔ Present your findings in a clear and concise manner, either through a research paper, presentation, or another format.
These are just some general steps to get you started in data science research. The specific details will depend on your interests and the specific project you’re working on.
T-shaped Learning#
T-shaped learning refers to a way of developing skills and knowledge that combines both deep expertise in one specific area (the vertical “stem” of the T) with a broader range of skills and knowledge that are more general or cross-disciplinary (the horizontal “bar” of the T).
The idea behind T-shaped learning is that by developing both deep expertise in one area and a broad set of related skills and knowledge, you are better equipped to understand and solve problems that are interdisciplinary in nature. This approach can be particularly useful in fields like technology and design, where it’s becoming increasingly common for professionals to work on teams that include experts from a variety of different fields.
The deep expertise can be in any area of focus, it could be a technical, artistic or functional domain, and the broad knowledge can include skills such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving, as well as knowledge of related fields.
The T-shaped approach allows the person to approach problem from multiple perspectives and to connect dots from different areas that can be used to build solutions. And it’s important to note that, becoming T-shaped is a continuous journey that doesn’t have a set endpoint.
The Feynman Techique#
The Feynman Technique is a method for learning and understanding a subject by teaching it to someone else in simple language. The idea is to take a complex topic and break it down into simple, easy-to-understand concepts, and then use those concepts to explain the topic to someone who is not familiar with it. This can help you identify any gaps in your understanding, and it can also help you remember the material more effectively. The technique is named after physicist Richard Feynman, who was known for his ability to explain complex concepts in simple terms.
Here are some steps you can follow to implement the Feynman Technique:
Choose a subject or topic that you want to learn or understand better. Take some time to research and learn about the subject. This can involve reading books, articles, or other materials, watching videos or lectures, or talking to experts.
Once you feel like you have a good understanding of the subject, try to explain it to someone else in your own words. This can be a friend, family member, or even a pet. The important thing is to use language that is easy to understand, even for someone who is not familiar with the topic.
As you explain the subject, pay attention to any points where you struggle to find the right words or explanations. These may be areas where your understanding is not as strong as you thought, or where you need to learn more.
Review the material and fill in any gaps in your understanding. Take some time to reflect on your experience. What did you learn from the process? What areas do you still need to work on? Use this information to guide your further learning and practice.
🔁 Repeat!
Repeat the process until you can explain the concept or idea in a simple, clear manner.
Overall, the Feynman Technique is a useful way to deepen your understanding of a subject and to identify areas where you need to learn more. By teaching the subject to someone else, you can see where your understanding is strong and where it needs improvement.
Cornell Note Taking System#
The Cornell Note Taking System is a method for organizing and structuring notes that was developed at Cornell University. The technique is designed to help students take more effective notes and to improve their understanding and retention of the material. The technique is based on the idea that active engagement with the material is key to learning, and it encourages students to process the information they are hearing or reading, rather than simply transcribing it.
The Cornell Note Taking System has four main components:
This is the main column on the page where you write your notes. It should be about two-thirds of the page, and it’s where you write down the main points and key information from the material you are studying.
This is a narrow column on the right side of the page, where you write keywords or phrases that will help you remember the main points in the note taking column.
This is a small area at the bottom of the page, where you summarize the main points and key takeaways from the notes.
This is the process of reviewing and summarizing the notes, this step should be done in the days following the note taking, it’s a process of active engagement with the material and it’s meant to help solidify the understanding.
The Cornell Note Taking System is a versatile and customizable method, it can be adapted to the specific needs of the student, and it’s a useful tool for organizing and structuring notes, it can also be used to help identify key concepts, main points, and relationships between different pieces of information.