By building a set of modules to teach data science in STEM courses at Dartmouth, we build a flexible and reusable set of tools and methods for faculty to enrich learning objectives through the hands-on exploration of data collection, analysis, and visualization.

DIFUSE Modules

Our team works with faculty in the sciences and social sciences to build data science learning modules for existing courses. These modules could be for a short assignment or a longer-running exercise with skill-building components. Module teams consist of 2-3 students (graduate and undergrad), one of the DIFUSE grant PI’s. We do the heavy lifting, with input from the faculty member during weekly meetings.


Anthropology 20 Taylor Hickey Anthropology 20 Taylor Hickey

Quantifying Behavior Using Focal Bout and Instantaneous Scan Sampling

This course module is a two-step assignment in which students collect data on shots taken during a provided basketball game video using the two main data collection methods used in research on primate behavior, focal bout sampling and instantaneous scan sampling. The class data is then aggregated and visual representations are created and discussed. The goal of the module is for students understand the respective strengths and weaknesses of the two data collection methods.

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