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Abstract:
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The ASA’s annual DataFest is a data celebration and competition. Each spring, students from universities around the globe come together to explore that year’s secret sponsored dataset. They seek to answer open-ended questions, find their own outside data sources, and create visual stories to convey meaningful insights over the course of only 48 short hours. Previous years have featured datasets provided by Expedia, Indeed and TicketMaster. Bryant University has participated since 2018 along with Stonehill College, UMass Dartmouth, and Bridgewater State University.
DataFest is a whirlwind for students and facilitators alike. Students come from a variety of schools and ability levels, employing a myriad of statistical languages. One of the greatest challenges involved is structuring the event to ensure that this diverse body of students have a meaningful experience when working with, for most, the largest and dirtiest dataset they have yet seen, despite their background or experience level. This talk will explore the triumphs and take-a-aways from a facilitator’s perspective during Bryant’s DataFest events, with a focus on successful strategies for engaging and supporting students.
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