Computer Languages
The Computer Languages Pathway introduces public safety professionals to foundational programming languages essential for modern data analysis and decision-making. Through beginner-focused courses in Python, R, and SQL, participants gain practical skills in automating data collection, cleaning, manipulation, and visualization. Whether using Python for scripting and web scraping, R for statistical analysis and BI enhancements, or SQL for querying structured databases, students will learn to transform raw data into meaningful insights. This pathway empowers criminal justice personnel to engage confidently with data and technology in support of more informed and effective public safety operations.
Introduction to SQL for Public Safety Agencies - P48769
SQL, or Structured Query Language, is the key that opens the world of data retrieval, modification, and processing, and this course puts that key right into your hands. This beginner-friendly program guides you through the essentials of SQL, an easy-to-learn yet powerful language that transforms the way you manage and leverage structured databases.
The course structure includes a blend of engaging activities and practical exercises designed to help you master SQL's basic query statements. You'll learn to efficiently retrieve, analyze, and manipulate data - skills that will dramatically enrich your ability to draw actionable insights from your agency's data collections.
Not only will you grasp the fundamentals of SQL, but you'll also delve into the applications of Microsoft Report Builder. In the context of criminal justice, effective data presentation is as crucial as the data itself. Our course ensures you're well-equipped to construct comprehensive reports, visualizations, and dashboards, helping you maximize the use of your agency's data.
Our additional guides, tips, and tricks will provide you with practical knowledge that you can directly apply to your day-to-day tasks and assignments. Whether it's optimizing database queries or understanding complex data relationships, we've got you covered.
Ideal for beginners or individuals with little to no SQL experience, this course is tailor-made for those working in agencies that use Microsoft SQL Servers to manage criminal justice data. If you're looking to bolster your data analysis skills and want to extract the maximum value from your agency's data, then this course is perfect for you.
Remember, this course is not about turning you into a database administrator overnight - it's about giving you a solid understanding of SQL's fundamental concepts.
Introduction to Python for Public Safety Employees
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 CPSDS courses:
Introduction to SQL for Public Safety Agencies
AND
High level of comfort with moderate to advanced functions of a Windows computer.
Introduction to R for Data Analysis
Business Intelligence (BI) software is designed to make understanding various types of data and information quickly and with ease. R is a programming language used in data science, statistical functions and is designed to clean, explore, understand, analyze, and display various forms of data. R programming is easy to learn, and effective to use. This course will teach the use of R to improve on the basic tenants of the Microsoft Power BI Desktop software suite.
This is an advanced class.
It is recommended that attendees have attended and successfully completed any one or more of the following CPSDS courses:
- Power BI Advanced for Law Enforcement Agencies
- Crime Analysis Fundamentals Using Data Driven Modalities
AND
High level of comfort with moderate to advanced functions of a Windows computer.