Summer 2024 COURSE OUTLINE FOR MGT3850 A1/A2

Data Transformation
Class times and location
Monday and Wednesday 6:00 pm - 8:45 pm - 06-May-2024 - 17-June-2024
in-person and online (synchronous)
Lethbridge Markin Hall M2044
Zoom Link: https://uleth.zoom.us/j/95445637177

INSTRUCTOR Dr Sidney Shapiro, PhD

Email: sidney.shapiro@uleth.ca
Office #: M4079; Office Phone: (403) 329-2455

Teaching Assistant Alison Liu

alison.liu@uleth.ca

OFFICE HOURS Office hours are following class, or email for an appointment

COURSE WEBSITE Through Moodle

COURSE MATERIALS
Required Textbook:
Automate the Borning Stuff with Python – Al Sweigart
https://automatetheboringstuff.com/ - This book is available open source and is free to access.

** NOTE: Textbooks can be purchased through the University of Lethbridge bookstore. Online orders can be
created using the bookstore.uleth.ca website. Students are responsible for ensuring products they purchase
through other retailers and/or private sales are the correct course materials, as identified in this outline.

COURSE PREREQUISITE and/or CO-REQUISITE REQUIREMENTS

OVERVIEW OF COURSE CONTENT, FOCUS and APPROACH

In "Data Transformation," students will learn to apply programming techniques to manipulate and analyze data,
tailored to solve common business problems at scale. The course integrates data manipulation methods with
practical applications, teaching students to automate data tasks and create dynamic dashboards. Students will
build competencies in programming and the practical resolution of business data challenges. Students engage in
mini-projects that simulate real-world data analytics scenarios, culminating in a comprehensive skill set
applicable in a business analytics environment.

LEARNING OUTCOMES FOR THIS COURSE

Upon successful completion of MGT 3850 Data Transformation, you will achieve a comprehensive
understanding of fundamental programming concepts and their application in the realm of data transformation
within a business context. Specifically, you will:

Page 1
  Gain proficiency in Python programming, including variables, data structures, control flow, and
functions.
 Acquire practical skills in data handling, automation, and analysis using Python libraries and techniques.
 Develop the ability to work with various data formats, including CSV, JSON, and text files, for efficient
data processing.
 Explore real-world applications such as web scraping, API integration, and communication automation,
enhancing your capability to extract valuable insights from diverse data sources.
 Strengthen problem-solving and critical-thinking skills through hands-on mini-projects grounded in real-
world scenarios.
 Build a portfolio of projects demonstrating your ability to apply Python programming to solve complex
data problems and automate business processes.
 Establish a foundation for further exploration and learning in advanced analytics and programming
courses, equipped with a high-level understanding of key concepts, frameworks, methods, and
technologies in the analytics landscape.

METHODS OF ASSESSMENT

TYPE OF ASSESSMENTS WEIGHT towards final

grade
In class participation 7%
Assignments 3 x 7% 21%
Module Quizzes 12 x 3% 36%
DataCamp Courses 6 X 6% 36%
Weighting of all assignments in final grade 100%

PERFORMANCE ASSESSMENTS
1. In-class Participation: Marks will be awarded for active engagement during class sessions and in the
course forum. Students are expected to contribute to lively discussions related to the course material, both in
class and within the forum. Following each session, students have until the next class to share reflections
and engage in discussions. Each contribution must be a minimum of 100 words, and students are also
required to respond to at least one peer's post with a minimum of 100 words. Points will be allocated based
on the quality of participation, including asking insightful questions, making meaningful comments, and
fostering enriching discussions relevant to the course content. Preparation through designated readings
before each lecture is highly encouraged to facilitate constructive engagement and discourse.
2. Assignments: There are three coding assignments throughout the course, designed to assess understanding
and application of the material covered in class.
3. Module Quizzes: There will be twelve module quizzes, each contributing to the final grade. These quizzes
will cover the material taught in each module and serve as checkpoints for understanding.
4. DataCamp Courses: Completion of six certificates on DataCamp is required as part of the course
evaluation. These courses provide additional opportunities for hands-on learning and reinforcement of key
concepts introduced in class.

LATE ASSIGNMENTS and MISSED MID-TERM EXAMS

Late work will generally not be accepted. Alternate dates can be arranged for exams only in extreme
circumstances and only if the instructor is contacted beforehand and permission is given.

Dhillon School of Business: MGT3850 A1/A2 Summer 2024 Course Outline Page 2
GRADING SCHEME
Finally, overall percentage grades will be converted to letter grades as follows:

Percent Letter Percent Letter Percent Letter

Mark Grade Mark Grade Mark Grade
100-95.0 A+ 94.9-90.0 A 89.9-86.0 A-
85.9-82.0 B+ 81.9-78.0 B 77.9-74.0 B-
73.9-70.0 C+ 69.9-66.0 C 65.9-62.0 C-
61.9-58.0 D+ 57.9-50.0 D 49.9-0 F

COURSE POLICIES

1. Pre-requisites and co-requisites. Students cannot register in a course for which they do not have pre- and
co-requisites, as the system does not allow it. It is each student’s responsibility to check all pre-requisite
and/or co-requisite requirements for courses they plan to register in by reading information found in the
Timetable notes and in the online Course Catalogue.
2. Policy for missed mid-term exams/quizzes. In this course, it is crucial that assignments and other
coursework are completed on time. As such, there will be no allowances for late submissions or make-up
exams/quizzes. Students are responsible for managing their time effectively and planning for contingencies
to ensure that all coursework is submitted by the deadlines provided. If you miss a deadline or do not
complete an assignment on time, it will not be considered, and you will receive a zero for that assignment or
exam/quiz. To avoid such situations, it is highly recommended that you stay on top of the course schedule
and proactively communicate with your instructor if you foresee any challenges with meeting deadlines.
This policy helps maintain the academic rigour of the course and ensures fairness to all students who
complete their work on time.
3. Policy for rescheduling final examinations. Students can initially discuss rescheduling a final exam with
faculty when an extenuating circumstance beyond a student’s control, for self or immediate family, arises
shortly before a scheduled final exam. An alternate date and time can then be arranged before the end of the
final exam period. Faculty members will not approve alternate final exam dates when students request for
personal reasons such as vacation bookings (including the purchase of non-refundable airline tickets) or for
family events (family vacations and weddings, for example, are not considered a legitimate reason for
approving an alternate final exam date). Also, alternate final exam dates will not be scheduled before the
first day of the exam period. Relevant, supporting documentation may be required to support rescheduled
exam date requests. If an exam cannot be rescheduled during the final exam period, students should request
an Incomplete instead. Faculty may ask that students request Dean’s office approval on rescheduled exam
requests, and if so, students will complete and submit the Dhillon “Rescheduled final examination form” as
per instructions on the form.
4. Conduct during examinations: Instructors can articulate regulations for late entry to and early exit from an
examination room and can also prescribe or restrict materials that can be used during the exam. Students are
not allowed to bring material aids, including such items as notes, mobile phones, smart watches, computers,
or other digital devices, into the examination site without prior approval. Please refer to examination
policies found in the “Assessment of Student Learning Policy and Procedures – Undergraduate Student”
policy, which is located on the University’s “Institutional Policies and Procedures” website.
5. Policy on AI use: Generative AI tools can be a useful resource, but they can also create complications if
used improperly. In this course, you may use AI-generated code for your assignments, but your grade will
reflect the quality of your final submission. If you rely solely on AI-generated content without
understanding the underlying concepts, you will miss out on developing the critical thinking skills this
course aims to teach.
Using generative AI in "auto-pilot" mode can result in code that lacks creativity or may contain errors,
negatively impacting your grade. It is recommended that you focus on building a strong foundation in
Dhillon School of Business: MGT3850 A1/A2 Summer 2024 Course Outline Page 3
 programming and data transformation. If you choose to use AI-generated code, you must indicate this in
your assignment by adding a comment explaining how and why you used it. This ensures transparency
and shows that you understand the work submitted.
6. Use of plagiarism and AI detection services: To ensure academic integrity, this course may use
University-approved plagiarism detection services, which include generative AI detection tools. These tools
can identify potential plagiarism and misuse of AI-generated content. However, AI detection services are
only partially reliable, and they should not be the sole means to confirm academic dishonesty.
If you use AI-generated code in your assignments, please make it clear where you applied AI. Failure to do
so may result in academic consequences. The university's Teaching Centre provides additional information
on Turnitin, AI detection tools, and academic integrity guidelines. For further assistance, consult the
Teaching Centre's website or reach out to them directly. This policy is intended to maintain our academic
program's integrity and high standards while accommodating the evolving use of technology in education.
7. Student conduct expectations: Please refer to policies pertaining to academic and non-academic
misconduct found in the “Student Discipline Policy – Academic Offences Undergraduate Students” policy
and the “Student Discipline Policy - Non-Academic Offences Undergraduate and Graduate Students”
policy. These policies are located on the University’s “Institutional Policies and Procedures” website and
relate to academic and behavior-related actions. Each student’s responsible for becoming familiar with these
policies, particularly those related to plagiarism, duplicating others’ work, and cheating. Every group
member’s responsible for ensuring that all submitted group work is original work and reporting to
instructors when they believe plagiarized work has been submitted. All students are strongly encouraged to
complete the “Understanding and Avoiding Plagiarism” tutorial at https://library.ulethbridge.ca/plagiarism.
Claiming ignorance of what constitutes plagiarism or other academic offenses at uLethbridge will not be
accepted as a valid reason for having committed these offenses.
8. Student accountability and integrity: As a student in Dhillon School of Business courses, you are
expected to act honestly, ethically and with integrity. This includes upholding honesty and transparency in
all aspects of conducting course projects outside of the classroom. Any deviation from academic integrity,
including but not limited to plagiarism and misrepresentation (including fabrication or falsification of
information), will be considered an academic offense and may result in disciplinary action as per the
University’s policies and procedures. Any funds (e.g. stipends or honoraria) provided to students who are
found to have engaged in such behaviour may need to be paid back to the University or funding agency.
You are expected to interact with others respectfully and accept responsibility for your actions. It is
imperative to respect the integrity of the education system and maintain the highest standards of ethical
conduct at all times. The following requests do not reflect academic integrity or personal accountability and
as such will be declined by Dhillon instructors, regardless of your personal circumstances.
 Telling the instructor that you "need" a certain grade
 Asking for extra assignments for the purpose of raising a grade
 Asking that the grade be raised because it is very close to the next higher grade
 Asking that the grade be raised because you did very well on one part of the course or grading scheme
 Asking to be allowed to turn in an assignment late because of last minute printer or computer problems
 Asking to be graded or treated differently than other students
 Asking for any other unfair advantage

LIBERAL EDUCATION and HOW IT APPLIES TO THIS COURSE

Liberal Education has been a philosophical cornerstone at the University of Lethbridge since its founding. Our
principle of Liberal Education is based on four pillars: encouraging breadth of knowledge; facilitating
connections across disciplines; developing critical thinking skills so that our graduates can adapt to ever-
changing employment and social conditions; and emphasizing engaged citizenship in our communities at all
levels from the local to the global. We help students become creative explorers and innovative critical thinkers,
leaders who can navigate through complex global issues and who use the breadth, connections and skills
developed here to make our world a better place for all.
Dhillon School of Business: MGT3850 A1/A2 Summer 2024 Course Outline Page 4
This course will address the Liberal Education pillars in the following ways:
 Breadth of Knowledge: The course offers a wide-ranging exploration of data transformation. Students
engage with topics from basic Python programming to advanced data processing techniques, creating a
solid understanding of the diverse tools and methods in data science.
 Connections Across Disciplines: By integrating business and technology concepts, the course
illustrates how different disciplines intersect. This approach encourages students to see beyond
individual subjects and understand the broader context of data in business operations.
 Critical Thinking: The course challenges students with projects that require thoughtful analysis and
problem-solving. These assignments push them to apply theoretical knowledge to practical situations,
fostering skills that are crucial for adaptability in a rapidly changing world.
 Engaged Citizenship: The focus on real-world applications and ethical considerations encourages
students to think about the impact of their work on society. This aspect of the course promotes a sense of
responsibility and awareness of the broader implications of data-related activities.

The Liberal Education Attribute assigned to this course is: Science

CLASSROOM EXPECTATIONS
Students attending the online portion of this course are strongly encouraged to have their cameras on. If a
course session is not recorded, you can be required to have your camera on. However, if you have internet
connectivity issues or are working from an environment where you are uncomfortable having your camera on,
please discuss your concerns with the instructor.

PRIVACY POLICY and STUDENT CONSENT

The personal information requested for any recorded lecture is collected under the authority of Section 33 (c) of
the Alberta Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (“Act”) and will be protected under Part 2 of
the Act. The information is collected for the purpose of posting lectures of the class to Moodle. If you have any
inquiries in regards to the collection of your personal information, please direct those inquiries to: FOIP
Coordinator, University of Lethbridge, 4401 University Drive West, Lethbridge, Alberta T1K 3M4, telephone:
403-332-4620, email: foip@uleth.ca.

The Liberal Education Attribute assigned to this course is: Science.

Dhillon School of Business: MGT3850 A1/A2 Summer 2024 Course Outline Page 5
CLASS SCHEDULE
IP/Flex – In person/Flex
O – Online Only (Zoom)
P – Pre-Recorded Lecture in Moodle

# Date Day Mode Topic Pre-Class Readings, Due Dates Assignments

May 6, Suggested Reading: Chapter 1: Python Basics and Quiz 1
1 2024 Monday IP/Flex Module 1: Python Basics Variables, Chapter 2: Flow Control Forum Post
Quiz 2
May 8, Module 2: Data Structures: Suggested Reading: Chapter 4: Lists and Dictionaries, Forum Post
2 2024 Wednesday IP/Flex Lists and Dictionaries Structuring Data DC Course 1
May
13, Module 3: Control Flow and Suggested Reading: Chapter 2: Flow Control (a deeper Quiz 3
3 2024 Monday P Functions dive), Chapter 3: Functions Forum Post
Quiz 4
Forum Post
May Suggested Reading: Not directly covered in book, but DC Course 2
15, Module 4: Introduction to Chapter 14 (Working with Spreadsheets) can provide Code
4 2024 Wednesday P APIs some insight working with APIs. Review class materials Assignment 1
May
20, May 20 - Victoria Day (University offices closed)
2024
May Module 5: Regular
22, Expressions and Text Suggested Reading: Chapter 7: Patterns with Regular Quiz 5
5 2024 Wednesday O Manipulation Expressions Forum Post
May Module 6: File Handling: Quiz 6
27, Reading and Writing CSV Suggested Reading: Chapter 8: Reading Files, Chapter Forum Post
6 2024 Monday IP/Flex and Text Files 16: Working with JSON Data DC Course 3
May
29, Module 7: Web Scraping Quiz 7
7 2024 Wednesday IP/Flex Techniques Suggested Reading: Chapter 12: Web Scraping Forum Post
Quiz 8
Forum Post
Suggested Reading: Chapter 13: Working with Excel DC Course 4
June 3, Module 8: Working with Excel Spreadsheets, Chapter 15: Working with PDF and Code
8 2024 Monday IP/Flex and Word Documents Word Documents Assignment 2
June 5, Module 9: Advanced Data Suggested Reading: Chapter 16: Working with CSV Quiz 9
9 2024 Wednesday P Handling with JSON Files and JSON Data Forum Post
June Module 10: Communication Quiz 10
10, Automation: Emails and Text Suggested Reading: Chapter 18: Sending Emails and Forum Post
10 2024 Monday IP/Flex Messages Text Messages Assignment 3
June
12, Module 11: Working with AI / Quiz 11
11 2024 Wednesday IP/Flex Working with Images Optional Reading: Chapter 19: Manipulating Images Forum Post
Quiz 12
June Forum Post
17, Module 12: Integrating and DC Course 5
12 2024 Monday O Automating Data Tasks DC Course 6
June
21 No class - Final Assignment Due

Dhillon School of Business: MGT3850 A1/A2 Summer 2024 Course Outline Page 6
DataCamp Courses:
Signing Up to DataCamp

DataCamp offers an intuitive platform for learning data science and analytics, providing courses
on Python, R, SQL, and more. To sign up:

1. Create Your Account: Use this linkand your Uleth email account to sign up for the class.
You are not able to connect to the class any other way.

https://www.datacamp.com/groups/shared_links/4950a2c99e69f1433351036f6b3ba73657
d35b190654508b2e0888895c76b185

DC Module
Course # # Course Title Link

Introduction to Data https://app.datacamp.com/learn/courses/introduction-to-data-

1 2 Science in Python science-in-python

2 4 Intermediate Python https://app.datacamp.com/learn/courses/intermediate-python

Python Data Science https://app.datacamp.com/learn/courses/python-data-science-toolbox-

3 6 Toolbox (Part 1) part-1

Python Data Science https://app.datacamp.com/learn/courses/python-data-science-toolbox-

4 8 Toolbox (Part 2) part-2

5 12 Any DataCamp course of your choosing (the course must be rated as 2+ hours)

6 12 Any DataCamp course of your choosing (the course must be rated as 2+ hours)

**TO STUDENTS: Final exam period scheduling information is found in the “Assessment of Student
Learning Policy and Procedures – Undergraduate Student” policy located on the University’s
“Institutional Policies and Procedures” website AND in the “Policy for rescheduling final examinations”
section earlier in this course outline. Instructors cannot approve changes to final exam dates that have
been scheduled by the Registrar’s Office during the final exam period UNLESS the request is due to
emergent and extenuating circumstances that arise shortly before a scheduled final exam. Students in
Dhillon classes need to discuss their situation with their professor as soon as they are able to. Faculty may
request that students submit a more formal request to seek and obtain approval to alternate final exams
during the final exam period from the Dean’s office.

Requests submitted to the Dean’s office via the completed “Rescheduled final examination form” should
also include a rationale and/or supporting documentation. Alternative final exam dates will NOT be
approved for reasons relating to personal vacation/travel or family events, and the alternate date must be
scheduled between the start and end dates of the final exam period. Instructions for submitting formal
requests are found on the online form.

Dhillon School of Business: MGT3850 A1/A2 Summer 2024 Course Outline Page 7
Appendix A

Dhillon School of Business AACSB Learning Outcomes

Characteristics of Global Citizens
Given our mission of developing global citizens, we have identified six learning outcomes, which are:

1. Management knowledge refers to the core knowledge of the functional areas of management and the
ability to integrate discipline-specific knowledge across functional areas.
2. Social responsibility considers the public interest and takes responsibility for the impact of one's
decisions on stakeholders.
3. Global mindset recognizes that one's immediate context and actions are significantly influenced by, and
have consequences for others globally; sensitizes one to similarities and differences in cultures, perspectives
and business practices; successfully adapts to new contexts and recognizes that diversity can enhance decision-
making.
4. Critical thinking refers to the ability to analyze, assess and integrate information for the purpose of
forming beliefs and determining action.
5. Communication refers to accessing and exchanging verbal, visual, numerical and textual information
designed for a specific audience, purpose and context.
6. Numeracy and information literacy involves the use of mathematics and information systems to
communicate and solve problems.

Dhillon School of Business: MGT3850 A1/A2 Summer 2024 Course Outline Page 8
 Zoom Information

Sidney Shapiro is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.

Topic: Data Transformation - MGT3850

Time: May 6, 2024 06:00 PM Edmonton

Every week on Mon, Wed, until Jun 17, 2024, 13 occurrence(s)

May 6, 2024 06:00 PM

May 8, 2024 06:00 PM

May 13, 2024 06:00 PM

May 15, 2024 06:00 PM

May 20, 2024 06:00 PM

May 22, 2024 06:00 PM

May 27, 2024 06:00 PM

May 29, 2024 06:00 PM

Jun 3, 2024 06:00 PM

Jun 5, 2024 06:00 PM

Jun 10, 2024 06:00 PM

Jun 12, 2024 06:00 PM

Jun 17, 2024 06:00 PM

Please download and import the following iCalendar (.ics) files to your calendar system.

Weekly: https://uleth.zoom.us/meeting/tJEpc-yurTwrHdODSn4PXxGxwHnu8lJHZrIY/ics?
icsToken=98tyKuCtqj8vHNeSsR6ARowMBo-gZ-7ztmZcgqdyuCzrVxBreiTuIcpMJ-pzOvDq

Join Zoom Meeting

https://uleth.zoom.us/j/95445637177

Dhillon School of Business: MGT3850 A1/A2 Summer 2024 Course Outline Page 9
 Meeting ID: 954 4563 7177

---

One tap mobile

+17789072071,,95445637177# Canada

+17806660144,,95445637177# Canada

---

Dial by your location

• +1 778 907 2071 Canada

• +1 780 666 0144 Canada

• +1 204 272 7920 Canada

• +1 438 809 7799 Canada

• +1 587 328 1099 Canada

• +1 647 374 4685 Canada

• +1 647 558 0588 Canada

• +1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)

• +1 346 248 7799 US (Houston)

• +1 360 209 5623 US

• +1 386 347 5053 US

• +1 408 638 0968 US (San Jose)

• +1 507 473 4847 US

Dhillon School of Business: MGT3850 A1/A2 Summer 2024 Course Outline Page 10
 • +1 564 217 2000 US

• +1 646 876 9923 US (New York)

• +1 646 931 3860 US

• +1 669 444 9171 US

• +1 669 900 6833 US (San Jose)

• +1 689 278 1000 US

• +1 719 359 4580 US

• +1 253 205 0468 US

• +1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma)

• +1 301 715 8592 US (Washington DC)

• +1 305 224 1968 US

• +1 309 205 3325 US

Meeting ID: 954 4563 7177

Find your local number: https://uleth.zoom.us/u/aluH5N0ua

Dhillon School of Business: MGT3850 A1/A2 Summer 2024 Course Outline Page 11