Overview
What is data, where does it come from, how is it stored and what is it used for? Data touches every part of our lives and yet we often do not know it is there, what the data is, where it came from, or how we use it.
This course is designed to provide you with an essential understanding of data from generation to use. It is a first step towards increasing data awareness and confidence. The course is a starting point for data literacy learning and beyond.
Alternatively, if you wish to gain a deeper fundamental understanding of the role data can play, data structures, data quality and how you can use data to produce analysis to turn data into information and create a data story, then you may find the QADLFUND - Fundamentals of Data Literacy course is more suitable.
Prerequisites
There are no formal prerequisites for the course. You just need to have a desire to take your first steps towards working more effectively with data.
Target Learner
Anyone from any sector who needs to start a journey towards a data-driven role and has no formal data training.
Delegates will learn how to
- Recognise where and how data can be generated
- Understand the principles of data types and storage
- Identify how data can be used
- Consider data governance and ethics
- Gain an understanding of roles that use or are impacted by data
Outline
Module 1: What is data?
- What data are you conscious of generating?
- Why is data important?
- Different types of data
- Structured
- Semi-structured
- Unstructured
Module 2: Data generation
- Data generated by you
- Data generated by an organisation
- External data generation
Module 3: Data storage
- Type of storage
- Data management
- The data lifecycle
- Governance and ethics
- Data quality metrics
Module 4: What is data used for?
- Given your current role what data are you using to make decisions?
- Data-driven decisions
- Data storytelling overview
- AI and automation
Module 5: Who uses data?
- Organisational roles
- Data Roles
Frequently asked questions
How can I create an account on myQA.com?
There are a number of ways to create an account. If you are a self-funder, simply select the "Create account" option on the login page.
If you have been booked onto a course by your company, you will receive a confirmation email. From this email, select "Sign into myQA" and you will be taken to the "Create account" page. Complete all of the details and select "Create account".
If you have the booking number you can also go here and select the "I have a booking number" option. Enter the booking reference and your surname. If the details match, you will be taken to the "Create account" page from where you can enter your details and confirm your account.
Find more answers to frequently asked questions in our FAQs: Bookings & Cancellations page.
How do QA’s virtual classroom courses work?
Our virtual classroom courses allow you to access award-winning classroom training, without leaving your home or office. Our learning professionals are specially trained on how to interact with remote attendees and our remote labs ensure all participants can take part in hands-on exercises wherever they are.
We use the WebEx video conferencing platform by Cisco. Before you book, check that you meet the WebEx system requirements and run a test meeting (more details in the link below) to ensure the software is compatible with your firewall settings. If it doesn’t work, try adjusting your settings or contact your IT department about permitting the website.
How do QA’s online courses work?
QA online courses, also commonly known as distance learning courses or elearning courses, take the form of interactive software designed for individual learning, but you will also have access to full support from our subject-matter experts for the duration of your course. When you book a QA online learning course you will receive immediate access to it through our e-learning platform and you can start to learn straight away, from any compatible device. Access to the online learning platform is valid for one year from the booking date.
All courses are built around case studies and presented in an engaging format, which includes storytelling elements, video, audio and humour. Every case study is supported by sample documents and a collection of Knowledge Nuggets that provide more in-depth detail on the wider processes.
When will I receive my joining instructions?
Joining instructions for QA courses are sent two weeks prior to the course start date, or immediately if the booking is confirmed within this timeframe. For course bookings made via QA but delivered by a third-party supplier, joining instructions are sent to attendees prior to the training course, but timescales vary depending on each supplier’s terms. Read more FAQs.
When will I receive my certificate?
Certificates of Achievement are issued at the end the course, either as a hard copy or via email. Read more here.