Big Data
Explore the concept of big data and help students develop skills and careers in data.
These lesson plans help students understand the difference between big data and traditional data, consider its sources, and explore the ethical questions around collecting and processing big data. They can then put this into practice by developing a machine learning app. Each lesson will take around 60 minutes to complete. Don't forget to download the certificate once completed!
Explore Big Data
In this lesson students are encouraged to explore real world applications of big data through films and case studies and reflect on its potential for the future of different industries.
Outcomes
Understand what big data is and how it differs from traditional data
Explore the different methods for collecting and storing data icon
Consider ethical implications of the impact of bias in big data
Investigate real-life examples of big data through case studies and videos
Timing
| Section | Activity | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Starter | The big question: How big is big data? Explore the difference between big data and traditional data, and how it is defined using the three Vs. |
10 mins |
| Part one | Where does big data come from? Introduce the different methods for collecting big data, what it can be used for, and start to think about the ethical implications. |
25 mins |
| Part two | Application of big data Use real-world case studies to explore how big data is used and measured, and evaluate if it is ethical. |
25 mins |
| Extension | The future of big data Discover what the future of big data could mean for fields like healthcare, sustainability and accessibility. |
10 mins |
Downloads
Download the module materials in PDF format, in English and Welsh.
Curriculum
See how this course relates to the curriculum in the UK.
Practice Big Data
Students put what they have learnt in the Explore module to use by developing a machine learning app that can analyse colour changes occurring on Earth due to global warming.
Outcomes
Understand the difference between data, information and knowledge
Practice using big data in real-world scenarios
Create models to interpret and analyse big data
Timing
| Section | Activity | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Starter | Data visualisation Explore how data visualisation helps us give context to big data by displaying it as a graph, map or chart. |
10 mins |
| Part one | Using big data Using one or more Microsoft programmes or initiatives, students practise collecting and analysing big data. |
50 mins |
Downloads
Download the module materials in PDF format, in English and Welsh.
Curriculum
See how this course relates to the curriculum in the UK.
Apply Big Data
Now your students have explored how big data powers today's technologies, they can apply their skills in various challenges, learning paths and gain certifications.
Join Imagine Cup Junior
Imagine Cup Junior is a global competition with events and lesson plans that gives students the opportunity to design original solutions and help solve social, cultural, and environmental issues using the power of AI, coding and big data.
Explore learning paths
Students can access over 80 hours of free task-based, interactive learning content with Microsoft Learn to learn how to apply big data skills with Microsoft products. They can also use this knowledge to gain certifications.
Accelerate learning
Students can demonstrate their understanding of big data and build skills using Microsoft products by earning certifications in Azure data and Dynamics 365.
Download the certificate
Celebrate success! Download and print the certificate to show student's they've completed the module.