Data Science: Beyond Business to Social Good

December 2022
Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania

Introduction

Dive into how data analytics isn't just for boosting business profits but also for tackling social issues, as highlighted by Wharton School's latest discussion. From uncovering sex trafficking patterns to doubling COVID-19 detection rates in Greece, data science is proving to be a superhero in the social good arena. With insights from Wharton professors and real-world applications, this article showcases the innovative use of analytics, AI, and machine learning in making the world a better place. Ready to see data science in action beyond the boardroom?

READ FULL ARTICLE

Why It Matters

Discover how this topic shapes your world and future

Unraveling the Data Tapestry for Social Good

Imagine living in a world where every decision, big or small, is backed by a mountain of data, ensuring the best outcomes for society's most pressing issues. From combating human trafficking to predicting pandemics, data analytics is the superhero tool we didn't know we needed. It's not just about numbers and charts; it's about real-world applications that touch lives and make our world a safer, healthier, and more equitable place. For you, this means a future where your actions, informed by data, can lead to meaningful change. Whether it's choosing a career path that contributes to social good or understanding how your online behavior can impact global trends, data analytics is increasingly relevant to your world.

Speak like a Scholar

Data Analytics

The science of analyzing raw data to make conclusions about that information. It helps us understand complex situations and make informed decisions.

Machine Learning

A type of artificial intelligence (AI) that allows software applications to become more accurate at predicting outcomes without being explicitly programmed to do so.

Reinforcement Learning

An area of machine learning concerned with how software agents ought to take actions in an environment to maximize some notion of cumulative reward.

Adaptive Learning

A technology-based educational method which uses algorithms to orchestrate the interaction with the learner and deliver customized resources and learning activities to address the unique needs of each learner.

Transfer Learning

A research problem in machine learning that focuses on storing knowledge gained while solving one problem and applying it to a different but related problem.

Deep Learning

A class of machine learning algorithms that uses multiple layers to progressively extract higher-level features from the raw input.

Independent Research Ideas

The Role of Data Analytics in Crisis Management

Investigate how data analytics can predict and manage crises, such as natural disasters or pandemics, by analyzing patterns and outcomes from past events.

Ethical Implications of Using Big Data for Social Good

Explore the ethical considerations, including privacy concerns and potential biases, in leveraging big data to address social issues.

The Impact of Social Media Data on Public Opinion and Democracy

Analyze how data from social media platforms can influence public opinion and democratic processes, and the implications for society.

Machine Learning in Environmental Conservation

Examine how machine learning can be used to tackle environmental challenges, such as climate change, by predicting outcomes and suggesting preventive measures.

The Future of Healthcare - Predictive Analytics for Preventive Medicine

Explore how predictive analytics can transform healthcare by identifying risk factors and preventing diseases before they occur, leading to a healthier society.

PAC Privacy: Securing AI's Future

July 2023

Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)

AI: Cybersecurity's New Superhero

May 2023

MIT Technology Review

AI Skills: Your Salary's Superpower

October 2023

University of Oxford

Methane Hunters: The Satellite Revolution

February 2024