Units / ETC5510
ETC5510 · Introduction to data analysis
2026 Handbook6 credit pointsLevel 5Department of Econometrics and Business Statistics
Last checked: 23 Aug 2026 UTCOverview
This unit introduces principles and techniques for exploring different types of data. You will learn concepts and practice in taking "data from the wild", reading different formats, tidying and wrangling it into shape for analysis, and creating useful visualisations to achieve effective data-driven decision-making. You will learn to use data to solve problems, and develop oral and written communication skills, using hands-on learning and live data analysis with code.
Offerings
| Campus | Teaching period | Mode |
|---|---|---|
| Clayton | First semester | Activities scheduled as a mix of on-campus and online activities (BLENDED) |
| Clayton | Second semester | Activities scheduled as a mix of on-campus and online activities (BLENDED) |
Assessment
The Handbook lists an examination for this unit.
| # | Assessment | Type | Weight | Hurdle |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1 - Artefact | Artefact | 10% | — |
| 2 | 2 - Quiz / Test | Quiz / Test | 10% | — |
| 3 | 3 - Project | Project | 30% | — |
| 4 | 4 - Quiz / Test | Quiz / Test | 20% | — |
| 5 | 5 - Examination | Examination | 40% | Threshold |
Assessment details may change. Please refer to the assessment information in Moodle closer to the start of the teaching period.
Requisites
Learning outcomes
- learn to read different data formats, learn about tidy data and wrangling techniques
- apply effective visualisation, descriptive analysis and modelling to understand relationships between variables, and make decisions with data
- develop computing, communication, and reproducible reporting skills.
Workload
Minimum total expected workload to achieve the learning outcomes for this unit is 144 hours per semester typically comprising a mixture of scheduled learning activities and independent study. Independent study may include associated readings, assessment and preparation for scheduled activities. You are expected to complete all pre-class activities prior to your scheduled class, and post-class activities should be completed after your scheduled class. Learning activities may include a combination of teacher directed, peer directed and online engagement activities.
| Activity | Duration |
|---|---|
| Workshops | 12 hours |
| Tutorials | 18 hours |
| Seminars | 24 hours |
| Assessments | — |
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