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Data Science Academy

International Partnership Brings Together Unique Data Science Perspectives

April 12, 2024

On March 4, 2024, instructors Carlos Ortiz Marrero and Ryan Murray welcomed students from Nagoya University with a passion for data science. With an intensive week ahead, Ortiz Marrero and Murray set out to not only give students the theory and skills needed to analyze data problems with a real world application, but also to build a community where students could feel confident in their decision making. Through a collaborative effort, students from Nagoya University embarked on an enriching experience at NC State’s data science program, hosted by the Data Science Academy (DSA).

At the heart of this endeavor lies a profound commitment to fostering a deep understanding of data science fundamentals while nurturing a culture of exploration and innovation. Through a comprehensive curriculum covering essential areas such as machine learning, statistical analysis, and data visualization, students were equipped with both theoretical knowledge and practical insights. The instructors, esteemed experts in their fields, guided the students through an immersive learning environment, using the ADAPT teaching model, that encouraged critical thinking and real-world application.

From the very onset, students found themselves immersed in a dynamic learning experience, one that transcended geographical boundaries and cultural differences. Students had varying levels of data science skills, fields of study, and international travel experience. In addition, working with this style of group training program, students left with a profound impact on their academic and personal growth. As they delved into various facets of data science and AI, they were met with invaluable opportunities to engage with local researchers and industry professionals, enriching their learning journey.

Throughout the intensive five-day program, students were introduced to foundational concepts in data science, ranging from data processing to AI algorithms. Hands-on workshops provided a platform for practical application, allowing students to deploy AI models and tackle real-world challenges head-on. Collaborative projects, such as assembling AIY cameras and utilizing them for data collection, underscored the importance of teamwork and problem-solving skills in the field of data science.

“Over preparation can sometimes be bad,” Instructor Ortiz Marrero stated after explaining the confidence they helped students build during the workshop. Instructor Murray concurred stating, “One of the things we were teaching them was to be adaptable.” The instructors wanted to give students space to suggest creativity in their research and designed the curriculum to help them learn how to operate with flexibility and adaptable thinking. Building these skills are essential for students heading into data science related careers. 

For example, they had a lesson that focused on machine learning. The camera that was set up was able to identify data points they were looking at based on the image that was taken. The cameras weren’t working initially. Ortiz Marrero and Murray discussed while the students were working, and Murray came up with a solution that he thought would work. About thirty minutes later, the students came to the same conclusion and the excitement was electric. The students didn’t realize their own potential. Later in the day, the group was gathered around the table with hopes their solutions would work. The tension in the room and build up of the project brought about a sense of pride amongst the students and instructors. Both cheered with excitement when the camera worked for the first time. 

The excitement and eagerness of the students drove the instructors to develop and dive into topics deeper. They themselves remained flexible and adapted as the students’ skills rapidly progressed throughout the week leading up to their final projects. Nagoya students were able to experience success in a different learning environment and the instructors experienced their own success in watching their students grow and develop.  

As the program drew to a close, students and instructors alike reflected on the transformative journey they had undertaken together. From overcoming initial challenges to celebrating shared successes, each moment served as a testament to the power of collaboration and adaptability in the field of data science.

In the end, the Nagoya-NC State Data Science Program stood as a beacon of excellence, bridging continents and cultures to shape the future leaders of data science. With a shared commitment to innovation and exploration, the partnership between Nagoya University and NC State continues to pave the way for groundbreaking discoveries in the ever-evolving landscape of data science.