Principles of Data Science – Predictive Modelling and Data Analysis
This individual assessment for the Principles of Data Science module requires students to select, apply and critically evaluate data science methods, tools and techniques using one of three provided datasets and its associated scenario. The main assessment takes the form of a 3,000-word report in which students explore their chosen dataset, identify an appropriate predictive modelling approach, build and evaluate models, interpret the findings and critically reflect on the overall process and outcomes. The assessment addresses the principles and foundations of data science, statistical methods, data preparation, visualisation, predictive modelling, decision making and the critical evaluation of data science techniques and tools. Students begin by exploring the selected dataset to understand its structure, characteristics and limitations. Although the supplied datasets have already been cleaned, students may undertake additional data preparation or transformation where necessary. Any preprocessing decisions must be justified in relation to the requirements of the selected analytical methods. Feature selection should also be considered as part of preparing the data for model development. The assessment requires students to identify suitable forms of analysis for the selected scenario and justify their choice of methods. At least two different techniques must be used to develop models with predictive capacity for the response variable in the chosen dataset. The models must be trained and tested consistently, using the same training and test datasets so that their performance can be compared fairly. Where appropriate, students should also provide insight into feature importance and explain the contribution of relevant variables to predictive performance. Model performance must be evaluated using suitable metrics, followed by a clear description of the findings and recommendations appropriate for the intended audience. The report should document the complete analytical workflow, including data exploration, preprocessing, feature selection, model development, testing and evaluation. Students are expected to explain and justify the decisions made throughout the process rather than simply presenting code or model results. The assessment also requires students to demonstrate practical proficiency in data science tools and techniques. The brief expects the use of R for completing the assignment and requires evidence of important elements of the code, although the complete code does not need to be submitted. Data visualisation must be used to support the written discussion and communicate relevant findings effectively. The assessment is evaluated across theoretical knowledge and method selection, data exploration and processing, technical application and model evaluation, communication of findings, and overall presentation and referencing. The assessment therefore combines technical implementation with critical analysis, requiring students to explain why particular methods were selected, evaluate their effectiveness and consider the limitations and implications of the resulting findings. A separate second assessment component accompanies the written report. This component requires a presentation of the key findings from the written work using a maximum of five slides and a presentation duration of no more than seven minutes. It should summarise the dataset, methods, key findings and project outcomes while providing critical reflective commentary on lessons learned, factors affecting success and potential real-world applications.
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