ICONIX - A TASTE OF DATA SCIENCE WITH R

Participants deeply engaged by the presentation

Participants deeply engaged by the presentation

Big Data Workshop Scores Big Applause - Data science, which is the latest and hottest buzzword in multi-disciplines, is a skill absolutely crucial for businesses to gain a competitive edge. A new workshop has been making an impact in the scene, breathing new life into tired old statistics and breaking stereotypes on data intelligence. "A Taste of Data Science With R Workshop" by ICONLYTIX Lab invites participants to slip into the shoes of a data scientist using the popular R programming in the industry. Held on the 23rd and 24th April 2015 at KDC in Cyberjaya, this workshop was led by a team of experts with stellar credentials to guide the participants into the exciting world of Data Science. This is part of a training programme which consists of 6 modules over 15 days. Best of all, it offered a joint certification with the Institution of Engineers Malaysia (IEM).

Participants from all walks of life took part in this one-of-its kind workshop in Malaysia. They come from a wide range of sectors - education, ICT, electronic, biotechnology, and the government. The response from the public was overwhelming, with online registration closing within the first 3 days of opening as it has reached its full capacity! The participants showed a high level of enthusiasm and dedication, as they stayed until 6pm although the event was supposed to end at 5pm. They were blown away by the impressive line-up of speakers, which include luminaries like Dr Yap Vooi Voon, Ir. Dr Michael Tan Loong Peng, Ir. Dr Kumaresan A.D., Dr Lim Cheng Siong and Dr Yeo Kwok Shien. The feedbacks received from the participants were exceedingly positive, with some praising the organizers for having smooth, top-notch coordination and excellent speakers who gave useful but easy-to-understand examples.

One participant noted that "I have been to several R workshop before but I can say that this workshop is the best so far mainly because of the content, examples and guidance given" and another remarked that "I have been to various trainings and recently a Big Data workshop in JW Marriott. This is way better." This event cast a refreshing take on data crunching, as participants gained first-hand experience of being a data scientist, a profession named the "sexiest job in the 21st century" (Harvard Business Review, 2012). This workshop would not be possible without the support of the Multimedia Development Corporation (MDeC) in conjunction with the Big Data Week in KL.