A basic time series forecasting course with Python

TL;DR

This paper introduces Python tools for teaching time series forecasting, based on a four-week course, suitable for students and professionals, with accessible resources and minimal Python prerequisites.

Contribution

It provides a practical, adaptable curriculum with accompanying Python tools and materials for teaching time series forecasting to diverse audiences.

Findings

Accessible Python tools for forecasting education

Course materials suitable for various audiences

Resources available on GitHub for teaching and learning

Abstract

The aim of this paper is to present a set of Python-based tools to develop forecasts using time series data sets. The material is based on a four week course that the author has taught for seven years to students on operations research, management science, analytics, and statistics one-year MSc programmes. However, it can easily be adapted to various other audiences, including executive management or some undergraduate programmes. No particular knowledge of Python is required to use this material. Nevertheless, we assume a good level of familiarity with standard statistical forecasting methods such as exponential smoothing, AutoRegressive Integrated Moving Average (ARIMA), and regression-based techniques, which is required to deliver such a course. Access to relevant data, codes, and lecture notes, which serve as based for this material are made available (see github.com/abzemkoho/forecasting) for anyone interested in teaching such a course or developing some familiarity with the mathematical background of relevant methods and tools.