| Unit name | Data Science for Sustainability |
|---|---|
| Unit code | MGRCM0049 |
| Credit points | 20 |
| Level of study | M/7 |
| Teaching block(s) |
Teaching Block 2 (weeks 13 - 24) |
| Unit director | Dr. Xiaolong Shui |
| Open unit status | Not open |
| Units you must take before you take this one (pre-requisite units) |
None |
| Units you must take alongside this one (co-requisite units) |
None |
| Units you may not take alongside this one |
None |
| School/department | School of Management - Business School |
| Faculty | Faculty of Social Sciences and Law |
Why is this unit important?
In an era marked by critical sustainability issues like climate change, biodiversity loss, and modern slavery, the importance of data science has never been more critical. These significant issues are central to the achievement of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, guiding global efforts to a more sustainable future.
Societal expectations of businesses have evolved beyond mere profit maximisation; now, they are also expected to actively address these pressing sustainability issues. This unit, therefore, aims to equip you with an understanding of the interconnectedness of global sustainability issues, including the trade-offs and synergies among them, as well as frameworks, standards, and regulations that govern sustainability efforts worldwide. Building on this foundation, you will develop technical and analytical skills to analyse sustainability-related data and making informed decisions on potential solutions. You will also develop a critical understanding of the practical limitations and challenges in implementing these solutions effectively.
How does this unit fit into your programme of study?
This unit marks the key difference of the sustainability pathway within the MSc Data Science for Business programme. It distinguishes this pathway by offering you the unique opportunity to apply your analytical skills to real-world sustainability data and scenarios. In this programme, the unit is essential for mastering the integration of data science with sustainability principles, ensuring that they can make informed and impactful decisions in business contexts. As a mandatory unit, it is critical for you to develop a deep understanding of how data science can drive sustainable business practices, complementing the core competencies covered in other units.
An overview of content
In the "Data Science for Sustainability" unit, you will focus on the application of data science to sustainability challenges. The unit begins with the collection and empirical analysis of sustainability-related data, in particular, environmental, social, and governance (ESG) metrics. You will learn how to interpret these analyses within the context of real-world sustainability scenarios, translating data insights into practical strategies. Key topics include discussions on relevant theories, such as sustainability frameworks and decision-making models, to guide the development of effective solutions. The unit also emphasises the importance of critical evaluation, teaching you to consider the practical limitations and challenges of implementing sustainable solutions in business contexts.
How will students, personally, be different as a result of the unit
On completion of this unit, you will understand how data science drives sustainability efforts. You will be able to analyse and interpret ESG data, applying relevant frameworks to develop practical solutions. You will also be equipped to critically evaluate the effectiveness of these solutions, making informed decisions that balance sustainability goals with business objectives.
Learning outcomes
On successful completion of this unit, you should be able to:
1. Explain sustainability theories, frameworks, standards, and regulations.
2. Collect relevant sustainability-related data metrics and apply appropriate data science techniques for analysis.
3. Interpret data analysis results to provide actionable insights for sustainability decision-making.
4. Critically evaluate the decisions and effectively communicate solutions to diverse audiences.
The teaching method for this unit will involve a 3-hour lectorial session each week for ten weeks. These lectorials will combine lectures, computer workshops, and case study analyses, all conducted in computer rooms equipped with specialised database environments.
Lecture components will focus on conveying the key methods, techniques, and ideas central to the unit. The computer workshop elements will demonstrate the implementation of crucial calculations and offer an opportunity to discuss and interpret the resulting outputs. You will also be expected to dedicate significant time to independent study, working on formative problems that require the application of the techniques covered in class. These problems will be provided weekly, with solutions available the following week to facilitate self-assessment. Additionally, office hours will be available to clarify any questions and provide feedback on areas that may require further understanding.
Tasks which count towards your unit mark (summative)
The summative assessment will consist of a two-part individual report, each part contributing 50% to your final grade:
Part One (50%, 1500 words): Choose a sustainability standard (e.g., GRI, SASB, or TCFD) and critically evaluate a large sample of companies in a country/region across sectors compliance with this standard and their associated performance metrics. You will collect and analyse data from various sources, assessing what contributes to their compliance and overall sustainability performance. (ILOs 1-2)
Part Two (50%, 1500 words): Select a case company from the bottom performers identified in your initial analysis. Conduct a detailed, in-depth analysis of this company’s sustainability practices. You will provide a thorough evaluation of their current practices, identify gaps, and offer data-driven recommendations for improvement. (ILOs 3-4)
Tasks which help you learn and prepare you for summative tasks (formative)
Each week's session has a distinct agenda and related exercises aligned with the comprehensive outline provided in the unit handbook. These exercises guide you in preparing data collection and data analysis that are instrumental in building toward your final report.
Every week, you are invited to discuss your progress in data collection, providing an opportunity for targeted feedback from both peers and the instructor. This collaborative and iterative approach allows you to resolve immediate questions and continuously refine your understanding and application of unit concepts. This step-by-step process is crucial in preparing you for the final graded assignments.
When assessment does not go to plan
If you do not pass the unit in aggregating across two assessments, you will be eligible for reassessment.
If you fail in part one of the individual report, you are expected to resubmit a 1,500-word report on a re-selected sustainability standard question resulting in a different report (50%). (ILOs 1-2)
If you fail in part two of the individual report, you are expected to resubmit a 1,500 -word report on a re-selected case company, resulting in a different report (50%). (ILOs 3-4)
If this unit has a Resource List, you will normally find a link to it in the Blackboard area for the unit. Sometimes there will be a separate link for each weekly topic.
If you are unable to access a list through Blackboard, you can also find it via the Resource Lists homepage. Search for the list by the unit name or code (e.g. MGRCM0049).
How much time the unit requires
Each credit equates to 10 hours of total student input. For example a 20 credit unit will take you 200 hours
of study to complete. Your total learning time is made up of contact time, directed learning tasks,
independent learning and assessment activity.
See the University Workload statement relating to this unit for more information.
Assessment
The assessment methods listed in this unit specification are designed to enable students to demonstrate the named learning outcomes (LOs). Where a disability prevents a student from undertaking a specific method of assessment, schools will make reasonable adjustments to support a student to demonstrate the LO by an alternative method or with additional resources.
The Board of Examiners will consider all cases where students have failed or not completed the assessments required for credit.
The Board considers each student's outcomes across all the units which contribute to each year's programme of study. For appropriate assessments, if you have self-certificated your absence, you will normally be required to complete it the next time it runs (for assessments at the end of TB1 and TB2 this is usually in the next re-assessment period).
The Board of Examiners will take into account any exceptional circumstances and operates
within the Regulations and Code of Practice for Taught Programmes.
