The Data Landscape

The world is awash with data. This growth of data (see figure below) shows no signs of slowing, and indeed seems to be accelerating, as scientists deploy new sensors and technologists invent new ways to quantify the nuances of the natural, built, and social environments:

Moreover, data are no longer the purview of scientists alone. Your car mechanic, your nurse, your real estate agent, and your children’s teachers are expected to interpret data in their professions. Citizen groups, political campaigns, and individuals use data to get a handle on the rapidly changing landscapes within which they operate. Analyzing data, spotting patterns, and extracting useful information have become gateway skills to full participation in the workforce and civic engagement of the 21st century.

Who, in our society, is going to extract insights from this data deluge? Our current education system is not producing either the workforce or the citizenry to make wise use of the data streams that our technologists are delivering. At EDC’s Oceans of Data Institute, we see this as an opportunity to ratchet up students’ data literacy through improved STEM education.

The Oceans of Data Institute is fully engaged in activities aimed at developing students’ skills in working with data so that they are equipped to participate in today’s data-rich world.  To learn more about our efforts, see descriptions of our research and development programs, convenings, curricula, technology tools, scientific publications, essays, presentations and books on the Resources and Projects pages.