Project Team
- Mostafa Mohamed, Lecturer, Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics and Statistics, Irving K. Barber Faculty of Science (Lead Applicant)
- Abdallah Mohamed, Associate Professor of Teaching, Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics and Statistics, Irving K. Barber Faculty of Science
- Fatemeh Fard, Assistant Professor, Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics and Statistics, Irving K. Barber Faculty of Science
Themes
- Artificial Intelligence
- Experiential Learning
Year
2027
About the Project
We propose to develop two closely connected components for DATA301: Introduction to Data Analytics that will significantly enhance the learning experience for students. The first component is a collection of course materials, including full labs, worked examples based on realistic datasets, and short guides that link practical data tasks to the concepts taught in the course. These resources will support active learning and help students build confidence as they move between different stages of the data analysis process. They will also be designed so that instructors in other data-focused courses at UBC Okanagan can adapt them easily.
The second component is a web-based environment that allows students to use these materials in a reliable way. This system will integrate with UBC Okanagan’s AI platforms hosted on CMPS servers and will provide students with access to SQL, Python, R, and command-line tools without requiring them to install or configure software on their own devices.
Students will be able to work with large datasets, ask questions, receive guidance, and export reproducible work directly from the platform. Hosting the system locally ensures that students are not dependent on commercial AI tools and that course activities remain aligned with UBC’s data governance practices. The technical development and creation of new materials involved in this project go well beyond what can reasonably be completed as part of normal course preparation.
By combining new teaching materials with a stable, institutionally supported computing environment, this project offers a practical and sustainable improvement to DATA301 and related courses.