Unravelling mystery of the data analytics course

I am happy that I have begun unravelling the data analytics course. Data analytics is one of the core courses of the EMBA27 programme. It involves the use of processed data to guide the process of decision-making. I had struggled with making meaning of the course for several weeks now. At the point I stopped struggling with the course, a miracle happened. Finally, I began to understand what the course was all about.

Understanding data analytics

Honestly, I think my attitude to data analytics had a lot to do with my perception of the course. The pace of the course left me feeling startled after most lectures. The online mode of delivery for lectures did not help matters, either. Challenges with network connectivity also made matters difficult.

Learning to use Microsoft Excel

For me, the most frustrating part of the data analytics course was learning to use Microsoft Excel for basic calculations. According to our lecturer, if we don’t write in our offices, why should we expect to use pen and paper in a class of data analytics. Wonderful! I thought to myself. This really can’t be happening. While trying to make sense of the course, I had to learn Microsoft Excel for data processing as well.

Practice makes perfect

To be fair, my difficulty with Microsoft Excel is probably due to insufficient practice. Come to think of it, our lecturers in other courses do not ask if we know how to use Microsoft Word and Microsoft PowerPoint. With consistent use, we have achieved near-mastery of both programmes over time. 

Back to the basics

However, the situation is different with Microsoft I have had to refresh my knowledge of the programme by watching tutorials. I am also learning to use its different arithmetic functions. We should not expect our lecturer to teach us the basics of Microsoft Excel. Similarly, we would not expect other faculty members to teach us how to use Microsoft Word or Microsoft PowerPoint programmes. The assumption is that we have sufficient mastery of these programmes to do our class assignments.  Rightly or wrongly so, this is how it is.

Moving forward

I am gradually overcoming my fears of the data analytics course. My confusion about the course is gradually resolving as well. I have started revising my lecture notes. In addition, I attend group discussions organised by my classmates. I am beginning to enjoy the course. Moreover, I am using my knowledge of statistics to decode the data analytics course. I am building on existing knowledge as I make progress on this journey. Hopefully, I will be able to transfer the knowledge and skills I gain from this course to other fields of endeavour. Is there any end to the learning process? I don’t think so. Data analytics course, here I come. Please receive me with open arms.  #EMBA27