Data Science by the Layperson: What Is Our Responsibility?

• Activity Number: 576 - Data Science by the Layperson: What Is Our Responsibility?
• Type: Topic Contributed
• Date/Time: Wednesday, August 2, 2017 : 2:00 PM to 3:50 PM
• Sponsor: Section on Teaching of Statistics in the Health Sciences
• Author(s): Christopher Lindsell* and Matthew Mayo* and Nichole Carlson* and Jody Ciolino* and Jonathan Gelfond*
• Companies: Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine and University of Cincinnati, College of Medicine and University of Colorado Denver and University of Kansas Medical Center and University of Texas Health Science Center San Antonio
• Keywords: data access ; statistical training ; professional responsibility

Abstract

Data analysis tools are increasingly accessible to users who have not been trained in statistical inference. Clinicians can query large repositories of genome-wide molecular data. Bench scientists can upload experimental results and run analyses. Lab technicians can access sample size calculators. The general public can access crowd sourced science. Data are being collected everywhere. As statisticians, we know the challenges that must be overcome to design valid studies and to turn raw data into scientific insight. In this discussion a diverse panel will wrestle with our responsibility to support and educate those who wish to embark on DIY data projects, and to monitor the results for validity.