Introducing big data topics: a multicourse experience report from Norway

TL;DR

This paper reports on Norway's d8stfold University College's integrated approach to embedding Big Data topics into its computing curricula, highlighting curriculum development, implementation, and initial positive student feedback.

Contribution

It introduces a comprehensive curriculum integration strategy for Big Data education in academia, including new courses and continuous education programs.

Findings

Positive student acceptance and engagement.

Promising initial assessment results.

Successful deployment of new Big Data courses.

Abstract

In the last few years, we have witnessed an explosion of interest in Big Data in both academic and industry arenas. Big Data is about the capture, storage, analysis and visualization of huge volumes of data in both structured and unstructured forms generated from a myriad of applications and devices in a wide set of scenarios. Focusing on the need of academia to develop professional posing the competencies that industry demands, the paper presents the approach adopted by the Faculty of Computer Sciences at {\O}stfold University College, Norway to deploy Big Data related contents throughout its studies in the computing field. This paper describes initiatives in bachelor and master programs along with continuous education courses with regards to Big Data topics. New master courses were implemented in the 2014-2015 academic year, while bachelor and continuous education courses will be deployed the year after. Initial results in terms of course assessments and students' acceptation unveil promising perspectives for the initiative.