136038 UE Data Driven Research Methodology for the Digital Humanities (2022S)

The course is aimed at introducing students to data-driven methods, frameworks, projects and examples with a particular focus on Digital Humanities projects and data sets. Generally speaking, a data-driven approach is when decisions and research questions are based on the inspection, analysis and interpretation of a particular set of data rather than on anecdotal judgements and observations. One of the larger aims of data-driven projects is the process of collecting and analysing data in order to derive insights and propose solutions for a defined challenge or general problem. In the field of Digital Humanities, data-driven research is particularly interesting as it allows not only to apply a variety of data processing tools, but also to gain insights into aspects of complex data, often hidden or unexplored. In this course a theoretical introduction will be followed by ideation and hands-on sessions where students will work in groups on conceptualising and prototyping their own data-driven project based on selected sets of open-data. Basics of the Python Programming Language will be introduced together with Jupyter Notebooks as a working environment. The course approach is both theoretical and practical, with hands-on exercises in project planning and prototyping. Students are expected to have some familiarity with digital environments, and previous practice with programming is desired, but not strictly mandatory. The course will be held in both English and German.