In an environment overflowing with information, the ability to make sense of it is crucial.
What is Data Literacy?
Data literacy is the ability to read, work with, analyze, and communicate data effectively. It's about going beyond the numbers – understanding what they mean, identifying trends, and using them to inform our everyday decisions and actions.
Why is data literacy important for UI employees?
As a large public university, data literacy is a powerful tool for everyone, not just researchers. Here are some ways it benefits our diverse community:
Optimizing Operations
Whatever their job, in whatever part of the university, data literacy allows staff to make data-driven decisions that improve efficiency, guide resource allocation, and ultimately, better support the student experience.
Data-Driven Advocacy
Data literacy empowers faculty and staff to effectively communicate the impact of our university's work. This helps us to secure funding, advocate for important initiatives, and demonstrate the value we provide to the public.
Transparency and Accountability
Using data effectively fosters transparency in our decision-making processes, helping us to demonstrate responsible stewardship of our resources.
UI Data Starter Pack
New to working with data at the University of Iowa (or looking to refresh the basics)? Start here!
Data Literacy Resources
Data Complexities
This sharable document prepared by the Office of the Executive Vice President and Provost is a handy reminder of the complexity of our institutional data and the need to stay educated about how to use it appropriately.