Data Science Course Projects with Peer Challenges
Wensheng Wu · 2022
Project-based learning is a key part of learning experiences for data science students. Typically, students choose their own topics and work on the projects without much interaction among the different groups. In this paper, we present a new approach to project design where every group is asked to also create a data science challenge based on its project idea, and these peer challenges are assigned to multi-person groups to tackle as additional requirements for their projects. This approach provides new peer learning opportunities to the students through challenge formulation, solving, and assessment. We have applied the approach to design course projects for a database course in our data science program with students from diverse academic backgrounds. Results from peer evaluations and surveys indicate that students were generally satisfied with the quality of peer challenges and solutions, and the process of formulating and solving challenges has helped students gain problem design, critical thinking, and data analytics skills.