Coding for computational social science

A.A. 2024/2025
6
Crediti massimi
40
Ore totali
SSD
INF/01
Lingua
Inglese
Obiettivi formativi
Non definiti
Risultati apprendimento attesi
Non definiti
Corso singolo

Questo insegnamento può essere seguito come corso singolo.

Programma e organizzazione didattica

Edizione unica

Responsabile
Periodo
Primo trimestre

Programma
This module introduces students to coding in Python, with a focus on data processing tasks that underpin quantitative research and analysis in the social and political sciences.
The first part of the module presents a standard introduction to the Python programming language.
Algorithms and data structures are introduced as we go along and we also look at the practical aspects of coding such as working with the file system, with IDE/debuggers and with versioning systems.
The second part of module focuses on specific Python modules, e.g., Numpy, Pandas, SpaCy and Networkx and on topics such accessing web data sources, data cleaning/preparation and text processing.
In particular, the SQL language for querying relational database sources will be briefly introduced.
If time allows, we will also work on a simple Machine Learning scenario with Scikit-learn.
Prerequisiti
None beyond basic computer literacy as taught in most BA/BSc courses.
Familiarity with any Linux/MacOs/Win filesystem and with Spreadsheet operations is preferable.
Metodi didattici
Lectures and lab experiences will be interleaved with units of about 30 minutes each.
Most lab experiences will entail solving simple data processing tasks in Python, normally by working on a baseline Python source code or a Jupyter notebook.
To maximise learning and enable groupwork, HighFlex attendance will be offered whenever possible.
Materiale di riferimento
Contents, resources and study materials will be made available weekly from the class repository and linked from the relevant MyAriel page.
Background readings, in-class presentations, their order and the study materials are constantly reviewed, updated and amended to adjust to the pace of the class.
Modalità di verifica dell’apprendimento e criteri di valutazione
A take-home, personal data analytics project, to be submitted online.
Details of the project will be published ahead of the exam date.
INF/01 - INFORMATICA - CFU: 6
Lezioni: 40 ore
Turni:
Turno
Docente: Provetti Alessandro
Docente/i
Ricevimento:
Il ricevimento viene svolto in forma telematica, previo appuntamento da concordare via mail
Piattaforma MS Teams