Data analytics is a rapidly evolving field. In today’s labour market, knowing how to acquire, process, and interpret large amounts of data to make optimal decisions is crucial for graduates in many disciplines, especially in business and engineering, says Ali AbdulHussein.

Co-ordinator of the Master of Engineering Management program, Prof. AbdulHussein is working with Bahman Naderi, an assistant professor in the Department of Mechanical, Automotive, and Materials Engineering, to develop content for a course in the field.

“UWindsor did not have an online data analytics course to meet the needs of professional engineers in the workforce,” AbdulHussein says. “We are designing modular content that will be easy to use in multiple graduate-level engineering and engineering management programs.”

The two have secured an eCampus Ontario Virtual Learning Strategy (VLS) grant to create quality, open-licensed digital content for online and hybrid delivery.

“Course materials will be free and shared through the eCampusOntario Open Library,” says Nobuko Fujita, a learning specialist in the Office of Open Learning who is working with AbdulHussein and Naderi. “We are creating student-centred learning modules that are relevant, accessible, and inclusive for a wider audience.”

Nick Baker, director of the Office of Open Learning, notes that digital materials are ideal for a field that changes so quickly.

“Open resources are more likely to be better options than costly, traditional commercial textbooks that become outdated rapidly,” he says.

More information about the VLS projects is available on the OOL website or by contacting openlearning@uwindsor.ca.