Campus Events
Data in Our Local Community 2024-2025
Don’t Wait to Register for Datafest Events – April 11-14
Looking for some data technology help?
The Data Nexus Technology Ambassadors offer in person (on the 1st Floor of Belk Library, in the open center area) and online office hours online.
Technology support offered by Data Nexus Technology Ambassadors include:
- MW 11:00-12:30 and T 1:00-2:00 (Excel, HTML/CSS, Java, Linux, Python, Qualtrics, SAS, SQL, Tableau)
- TTH 3:00-5:00 (Excel, SAS, Tableau)
Datafest Keynote : “AI’s Music Problem and Music’s AI Problem”
Featuring Dr. Christopher White, Associate Professor of Music Theory @ UMASS Amherst. Will Generative AI put musicians out of business? Or will music be immune to AI’s technological advances? This talk outlines the numerous technical, social, and expressive challenges that make music a uniquely complex domain for AI research . These challenges include the lack of substantial commercial motivation, the int AI interventions, while other aspects remain uniquely shielded from this burgeoning technology. Sign up today!
Series: Data Technology and Career Workshops
Qualitative Research for STEM Workshop Series for ALL
March 26 | April 2 | April 9| 5:00 – 6:30 pm
Sign up for one or all of them!
- Workshop 1: Getting Started in Qualitative Research
- Workshop 2: An Introduction to Dedoose
- Workshop 3: Using Dedoose to Explore Patterns, Relationships, and Findings
Music as Data: Probability and Machine Learning in Country, R&B, and Beyond
Thursday April 10 (3:30-5:00pm) and Saturday April 12 (9:30-11:00am). Sign up for this amazing workshop!
In this interactive two-part workshop, Dr. Chris White, Associate Professor of Music Theory @ UMASS, introduces students—whether musicians, data enthusiasts, or those new to computational methods—to the exciting ways that statistics and computational modeling can be used to study and generate music. No prior experience in programming or music theory is required!
- Workshop 1: Understanding Musical Data
- Modeling and Generating Music Building on these concepts
Students who complete both of the workshops in the series will be eligible for the Data and Creative Arts Microcredential.
Black Solidarity Day - Session on W.E.B Dubois' Revolutionary Data Portraits
Black Solidarity Day – Session on W.E.B Dubois’ Revolutionary Data Portraits, February 28, 1:45-2:45pm, Moseley 215.
Series: The Power of Women in Data
Archived
- Using Cybersecurity & Data Science to Understand Extremism
Dr. Megan Squires, Deputy Director of Data Analytics and Open Sources Intelligence at the Southern Poverty Law CenterWhen: February 13, 4:30-5:30 (Snacks will be provided)
Where: LaRose Student Commons 200
Description: In this talk, Dr. Megan Squire, Deputy Director for Data Analytics and Open Source Intelligence at the Southern Poverty Law Center, will explain how she uses techniques from data science and cybersecurity to build the SPLC’s first Data Lab, charged with tracking and exposing hate and extremism using digital methods. Dr. Squire’s award-winning research into complex socio-technical issues such as extremist group membership and financing has been featured in numerous media publications including the Wired, NPR, The New York Times, and CNN.
Video - Big Political Data in Our Local Community
Dr. Maggie Macdonald ‘15, Assistant Professor of Political Science, University of KentuckyWhen: October 23, 4:30-5:30pm (Snacks will be provided)
Where: Lakeside Room 214
Description: Dr. Maggie Macdonald ’15 joins us as a speaker in the Data Nexus Power of Women in Data Series. Despite the increasing nationalization of American politics, it is the behaviors of individuals across the country and in our local communities which shape outcomes. Where a legislative district’s boundaries are, whether a political candidate receives some, none, or all of their campaign contributions from their constituents, and whether a donor decides to give $25 to their local candidate or a politician on the other side of the country define the politics that we experience. As we approach election day 2024, these dynamics are of high importance. In her talk, Dr. Macdonald will provide an overview of gerrymandering in the state of North Carolina and contribution patterns by residents of Alamance County (and how these compare to the whole state and the rest of the country).
Video - More Than Metrics: A Qualitative Exploration of Food Security and Resilience in NC.
Yasmeen Lee ‘ 20, Evaluation Specialist at Food Insight GroupWhen: September 19, 4:30-5:30pm
Where: LaRose Student Commons Room 200
Description: Yasmeen Lee’20 joins us as a speaker in the Data Nexus Power of Women in Data Series. This talks explores the ways in which researchers can center community experiences and storytelling to understand food security in North Carolina and within local communities. We will discuss the different data collection methods and practical applications of qualitative data within food and agriculture research. This talk will focus on food security rather than food insecurity, using an asset-based approach to discuss the ways in which community members experience their local food systems. Qualitative data will be discussed as a way to provide context and narrative to commonly captured metrics of food security. Additionally, this talk will provide actionable ways to get involved in local and state food systems and opportunities to engage in research.
Video - Leveraging Data to Improve Human Health
Dushani Palliyaguru and Nipuni Palliyaguru
Co-Founders of Health Surveil
October 18, 4:30-5:30pm, Koenigsberger Learning Center 127In the current digital landscape, data is being used for many purposes. We will explore how datasets, data products and their applications are being used to improve different aspects of human health – from measuring and improving aging to wearable devices to personalized medicine.
Learn about opportunities, the potential as well as the pitfalls as we navigate health in this digital age. HealthSurveil is also looking for partners on several projects so come out to connect and listen to some of the newest research in the field. Healthy snacks will be served. - Conversations with Analytics Leaders featuring Gayle Bieler
Co-sponsored with the Center for Organizational AnalyticsLocation: Sankey 206
When: Thursday, November 2, 2023 4:30-6pm
“Conversations with Analytics Leaders” featuring Gayle Bieler – Senior Director, Center for Data Science and AI, RTI International. Gayle Bieler is the Founding and Senior Director of RTI International’s Center for Data Science and AI. RTI (Research Triangle Institute) International is a non-profit institution based in Durham, NC dedicated to improving the human condition around the world. Specific practical focus areas for RTI include public health, the environment and climate, education and literacy, energy and natural resources, as well as agriculture designers. Ms. Bieler’s vision is to use the Center’s data analytics expertise to solve important national problems, improve our local communities, and transform scientific research, working with domain experts in government and non-government organizations dedicated to the public good. Under Ms. Bieler’s leadership, the Center strives to be a vibrant data science team that is a hub of innovation and collaboration, of inclusivity, of thought leadership inside and outside RTI, and where people can thrive and be at their natural best, while doing meaningful work to improve the world. - Journey Through the Wonderful World of Data with Disney
with Morgan Ferguson ’19, Senior Data Scientist at The Walt Disney Company
Location: LaRose Student Center 200
When: Monday February 12, 4:30-5:30pm
Center for Organizational Analytics Events
Business Analytics Day
Looking to expand your knowledge and network in AI and analytics? Business Analytics Day is happening Thursday, February 20 in LaRose Digital Theatre, and you won’t want to miss it!
This year’s theme, “Ignite the Future: AI in Action, Powered by Mentorship,” brings together industry leaders and Elon alumni to discuss cutting-edge topics like healthcare analytics, women in business analytics, AI governance, and cybersecurity. You’ll also have the opportunity to network with professionals from Lenovo, Dyson, SAS, and KPMG.
The event kicks off at 7:00 a.m. with a networking breakfast and industry resume review, followed by a full schedule of panel discussions, mentorship activities, a data challenge, and a recruiting fair. The day concludes at 6:00 p.m. with snacks and closing remarks.
Students can also compete in the Business Analytics Challenge, sponsored by Hanes Brand Inc. This competition is open to all students, with teams of three required to include at least one non-Business student. Case materials will be released on February 14, with Round 1 presentations on February 19. The top six teams will advance to the Final Round on February 20, presenting to a panel from Hanes Brands for a chance to win $1,500 for first place, $750 for second, and $300 for third.
Register your Data Challenge team here by February 13: Data Challenge Team Sign Up
If you have any questions, please contact Dr. Katelyn Walls (kwalls4@elon.edu) or Dr. Vinayaka Gude (vgude@elon.edu).
Faculty and Staff Events
Qualitative Research Series - Session 1
Qualitative Analysis for Quantitative People: Getting Started in Qualitative Research
This session aims to provide a foundational understanding of qualitative research for those more familiar with quantitative methods. We’ll explore the basics of qualitative research, including its philosophical foundations and methodological approaches. Participants will be introduced to various theories applicable to qualitative research, offering them a broader perspective for their studies. We’ll also cover the essential concept of coding qualitative data, equipping attendees with practical skills to better navigate this aspect of qualitative research. This workshop is designed to help participants venture into the world of qualitative research with confidence.
Note: This is one of four sessions being offered about qualitative research. Sessions 2, 3, and 4 will teach participants how to use Dedoose for qualitative research. Participants are welcome to attend any or all of these workshops. You are not required to come to all of them.
Led by Heather Barker, Assistant Professor of Mathematics and Statistics
Co-sponsored by Data Nexus and the Center for Writing Excellence
Qualitative Research Series - Session 2
Software Tools for Qualitative Analysis: An Introduction to Dedoose
In this session, we will walk you through the essential steps of using Dedoose, a powerful qualitative analysis tool. We’ll begin with data preparation, ensuring your research materials are ready for analysis. Then, we’ll provide an overview of Dedoose, highlighting its key features and benefits. You’ll learn how to import your data into the platform, how to create parent and child codes, and how to code your data. We’ll also delve into memoing, an invaluable practice for capturing insights and reflections. Additionally, we’ll explore Dedoose’s collaborative features, enabling you to work efficiently with your research team.
Note: This is one of four sessions being offered about qualitative research. Sessions 2, 3, and 4 will teach participants how to use Dedoose for qualitative research. Participants are welcome to attend any or all of these workshops. You are not required to come to all of them.
Led by Heather Barker, Assistant Professor of Mathematics and Statistics
Co-sponsored by Data Nexus and the Center for Writing Excellence
Participants should bring their laptops with Dedoose installed. Elon faculty can download Dedoose for a 30 day free trial. We’ll discuss how you can request a permanent version of Dedoose from Elon at the workshop (add this to each description).
Qualitative Research Series - Session 3
Using Dedoose to Explore Patterns, Relationships, and Findings
In this session, we will dive into the advanced features of Dedoose, demonstrating how to use descriptors to uncover and examine relationships within your qualitative data. You’ll gain valuable insights into how to identify and analyze connections between themes, categories, and concepts. Furthermore, we’ll showcase the power of creating data visualizations within Dedoose, allowing you to visually map and explore patterns that may have otherwise remained hidden. This session will be helpful for researchers looking to elevate their qualitative analysis and gain a deeper understanding of their data.
Note: This is one of four sessions being offered about qualitative research. Sessions 2, 3, and 4 will teach participants how to use Dedoose for qualitative research. Participants are welcome to attend any or all of these workshops. You are not required to come to all of them.
Led by Heather Barker, Assistant Professor of Mathematics and Statistics
Co-sponsored by Data Nexus and the Center for Writing Excellence
Participants should bring their laptops with Dedoose installed. Elon faculty can download Dedoose for a 30 day free trial. We’ll discuss how you can request a permanent version of Dedoose from Elon at the workshop (add this to each description).
Qualitative Research Series - Session 4
Using Dedoose to Enhance Collaboration in Qualitative Research
In this session, we’ll guide you through the art of seamless collaboration within Dedoose, showcasing its team collaboration features. You’ll learn effective project management strategies and how to efficiently organize your research team’s efforts using Dedoose’s management tools. We’ll also delve into the crucial aspect of interrater reliability, offering insights into maintaining consistency and agreement among team members during the coding process. Whether you’re working on a research project or managing a team, this session will empower you with the knowledge and skills to harness Dedoose’s collaborative capabilities, to help ensure your research endeavors run smoothly and efficiently.
Note: This is one of four sessions being offered about qualitative research. Sessions 2, 3, and 4 will teach participants how to use Dedoose for qualitative research. Participants are welcome to attend any or all of these workshops. You are not required to come to all of them.
Led by Heather Barker, Assistant Professor of Mathematics and Statistics
Co-sponsored by Data Nexus and the Center for Writing Excellence
Participants should bring their laptops with Dedoose installed. Elon faculty can download Dedoose for a 30 day free trial. We’ll discuss how you can request a permanent version of Dedoose from Elon at the workshop (add this to each description).
Two offerings:
Monday, April 1st, Innovation Hall 208, from 4:30 – 5:40
Wednesday, April 3rd, Innovation Hall 208, from 12:30 – 1:40
Register