What is DataBasics?
DataBasics is a low-stress, low-tech introduction to thinking about data. The studio runs July 25-27, 2022.
Have you ever wondered whether you would see your sources differently if you organized them differently? Have you ever found yourself plugging information into a spreadsheet and worrying that you aren’t doing it "correctly" or that your data isn't "big" enough? Or maybe you suspect that your data isn't data at all?
If so, consider joining us this summer! This 3-day studio will introduce the basic concepts and principles of data organization. We will work together to assess your material and customize a work plan for expressing and/or improving it. By the time you leave, you will be well on the way to producing usable, shareable data of your own.
Who can apply?
DataBasics is open to anyone working on a topic related to Russian/Eurasian studies regardless of status, discipline, academic institution, or time zone. It is intended for those with little or no experience organizing and structuring data. We will not be learning scraping or extraction techniques: our focus will be on content and design. In practical terms, this means we will stick to a spreadsheet environment. We will go back and forth between the weeds ("How exactly do I do that?") and the clouds ("Am I articulating meaning? Is there a place for context?").
To apply, you will need to identify the source you want to work with and secure access to it prior to the start of the studio. If you have already begun working to translate your source into data, wonderful, but it is not necessary.
Participation is capped at 6. Applicants must be willing and able to engage with peers and their projects.
What does it cost?
This studio is free.
Where will it take place?
We will meet on Zoom.
What is the timeline?
July 8, 2022: Applications due.
July 11, 2022: Decisions announced.
July 15, 2022: Confirmation of acceptance due.
July 25-27, 2022: Studio sessions. 9:00am to 2:00pm ET with breaks each hour and for lunch.
Questions?
Contact Dr. O'Neill: koneill@fas.harvard.edu
Accessibility
The Davis Center for Russian and Eurasian Studies at Harvard University encourages persons with disabilities to participate in its programs and activities. If you anticipate needing any type of accommodation or have questions about the physical access provided, please contact us at 617-495-4037 or daviscenter@fas.harvard.edu in advance of your participation or visit. Requests for Sign Language interpreters and/or CART providers should be made at least two weeks in advance if possible. Please note that the Davis Center will make every effort to secure services but that services are subject to availability.
