DaLI - Data Literacy Initiative

The ability to confidently, methodically, and ethically handle data continues to gain importance across curricula at TH Köln. Our students' qualification to co-create and take on responsible activities in an interconnected information society is closely related to developing the skills to professionally and responsibly collect, manage, evaluate, and use data.However, internal and external stakeholders - students, teachers, researchers, and cooperation partners alike – work in subject area of data literacy without always being aware of it or linking their activities. A common understanding of data literacy competencies is missing as well as designated space for dialogue and the development of an overarching operational framework.

The Data Literacy Initiative is aiming to overcome these difficulties. Within a 24-month research and deployment phase, data literacy will be embedded in the curricula of the TH Köln across disciplines and faculties. Introductory courses addressing ethical, social, and legal aspects concerning data literacy, as well as mathematical and statistical basics, will be provided mainly as online courses.
Training in advanced and specialized competencies will be offered in interdisciplinary and cross-faculty projects and blended learning courses. Existing courses will be incorporated into the teaching concept along with newly created learning materials

A central hub for interdisciplinary exchange and a collaborative work environment will be created with the DALI Lab. Here, students will be supported and advised on data literacy issues in colloquia across all faculties during their BA or MA theses. At the same time, the lab offers an infrastructure for the adequate research-oriented handling of research data and the development of services and applications on the bloxberg blockchain. The lab can provide a space for student-led learning and the collaborative planning of lectures, projects, or courses. Results will be processed and made available as Open Educational Resources (OER).