In the realm of data analytics, Python has emerged as the language of choice. With its free and user-friendly nature, Python is rapidly gaining popularity among professionals seeking to harness the power of data. This course is specifically designed for programming novices and beginners in the public safety field, providing them with the knowledge and skills to utilize Python effectively. By simplifying data collection, information analysis, and visual displays, Python empowers criminal justice practitioners to unlock valuable insights. Join us on this journey of discovery and enhance your data analysis career.

This course is tailored for individuals with minimal programming experience, providing a solid foundation in Python for data analytics. Throughout the program, you will learn how to leverage the Visual Studio Code Integrated Development Environment (IDE) to write Python code seamlessly. With the guidance of experienced criminal justice data scientists, you will explore various Python libraries and tools that are invaluable for data analysis. We will guide you through the fundamentals of data collection, enabling you to automate data retrieval from various sources, such as databases, APIs, and web scraping. By harnessing the power of Python, you will gain the ability to efficiently gather, organize, and prepare data for analysis.

Data analysis lies at the core of effective decision-making in criminal justice. This course equips you with the essential techniques and tools needed to extract meaningful insights from complex datasets. You will learn how to perform data manipulation, exploration, and transformation using Python libraries such as Pandas and NumPy. With hands-on exercises and real-world examples, you will develop the skills to analyze and interpret data, enabling you to make informed decisions.

By enrolling in this course, you are investing in your professional growth and opening doors to exciting opportunities in data analysis. Python's growing popularity in the field ensures that your newfound skills will be in high demand. With the knowledge and resources gained, you will be well-equipped to advance your career in criminal justice and beyond. Stay ahead of the curve and become a proficient Python user, unlocking the potential of data analysis in your field.

It is recommended that attendees have attended and successfully completed any one or more of the following CJDS courses:

Introduction to SQL for Public Safety Agencies

AND

High level of comfort with moderate to advanced functions of a Windows computer.  

REQUIRED COURSE TEXTS DENOTED BELOW. Attendees are required to bring text to class. Cost of the material is the responsibility of the attendee. 

Course ​​​​​​​Prerequisites: 

Required Software (must be installed prior to the first day of class). All software are free:

Visual Studio Code

Python

GitHub account (Free)

High level of comfort with moderate to advanced functions of a Windows computer. 

Basic understand of mathematics and associated principles.

Students will need to have access to a Windows laptop (personal or employer issued/assigned). Host agency is unable to provide students with a laptop for use within the course.

You must have ability to (or are able to have another person) install files on your selected computer.

Duration: 40 Hours (5 days)

Method: In Person 

Restrictions: Restricted to active and credentialed criminal justice employees only who are in a full duty (or light duty due to medical) status.

Required Disclosures: None

Fee: Course attendance is free, cost of materials at the students expense.

Note: 72 hours prior to the start date of a course, a minimum 50% of available seats should be filled. If this is not met, the instructor reserves the right to cancel the scheduled course at their discretion.

Course Objectives

After successfully completing the course, attendees will be able to know, discuss, use, and execute the following fundamentals

• Who, what, where, when, why and how of Python
• Introduction to the Python programming language
• Law Enforcement Data Collection Ethics and Best Practice
• Legalities of Web / Data Scraping
• Hands on learning to provide attendees with the basics of Visual Studio Code
• Hands on learning to provide attendees with the basic functions and uses of Python
  
• Exposure to GitHub
• Fundamentals (though guided activities) in
  • Python Coding
  • Web Scraping
  • MS SQL Server connections using SQL and Python to understand Data

Required Text