This course introduces students to the role of data in global development contexts. Students will develop practical skills in collecting, analysing, and presenting data to inform development policy and practice. The course bridges theory and application, emphasising data collection and use across diverse global contexts.

10 1-hour lectures

10 1-hour seminars

None

None

Data-Driven Policy Brief (40%)  

Data Collection Exercises (30%) 

Group Presentation (20%)

Participation (10%): Engagement with activities during lectures and seminars. Adjustments and/or alternative modes of assessment will be available for students with disabilities that hinder attendance and/or public speaking.

This course aims to equip students with the knowledge and practical skills to identify, collect, analyse, and interpret various types of data relevant to development challenges in Global South contexts. To develop students' critical understanding of how data informs and shapes development policy and practice, including awareness of data limitations and potential biases. To build students' capacities to ethically manage data collection processes in diverse cultural contexts. To enhance students' abilities to effectively communicate data-driven insights to diverse stakeholders in the development sector. To foster an understanding of emerging data technologies and methodologies in addressing development challenges.

By the end of this course students will be able to:

■ Identify appropriate data sources and methodologies for specific development questions and contexts

■ Describe how different types of data (qualitative, quantitative, primary, secondary) can inform development policy and practice

■ Critically evaluate the quality, reliability, and limitations of various data sources

■ Use digital tools for data collection, analysis, and visualisation

■ Communicate data-driven insights in accessible formats for non-technical audiences