Challenges Observed

We are surrounded by data. It encompasses everything we do and everything we touch. We are tracked, codified, then run through prediction algorithms to varying effects and, quite often people don't know what to do about that. We aim to address the following questions:
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• How do we navigate this data ecosystem?
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• How can we ensure the data created from our digital lifestyles isn’t doing more harm than good?
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• How can nonprofits use this data to help them achieve their missions?
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• How can data scientists apply their skills to address larger societal questions? 

Purpose

The first steps in learning to navigate the data ecosystem are to become both data literate and digitally literate. The D4G Data Literacy Program will:
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• Provide educational opportunities that empower individuals to understand the role of data and how it affects their everyday lives
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• Share areas of data expertise and spotlight data stories which demonstrate societal good
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• Demystify data and data science, while providing roadmaps so people can apply their skills and build upon known successes


 

Goals

• Bring together activists, data scientists, and community leaders to explore how they can combine and amplify their unique skills and perspectives to use data for good.
• Equip individuals with a data literacy vocabulary that allows them to describe, define, and understand what they can expect from data and data-driven technologies.
• Share data stories which model how data is used ethically and for the good of the community.
• Provide use cases and roadmaps for how data can be used to make a positive social impact.