R Basics

Course Description (Long)

This introductory course is the first in Harvard's Professional Certificate Program in Data Science. It focuses on the basics of R programming, using a real-world dataset about crime in the United States to enhance learning and retention. Participants will explore R's functions and data types, learn to operate on vectors, and utilize advanced functions like sorting. The course also covers general programming features such as 'if-else' and 'for loop' commands, alongside data wrangling, analysis, and visualization techniques.

Rather than covering every R skill, this course aims to build a strong foundation for more in-depth studies in subsequent courses.

Course Format

Online learning, self-paced, practical assignments

Course Length

1-2 hours per week, months

Course Accreditation

Verified certificate option

Cost

Course is free

Fee for the verified certificate

Access

General access

Skills Covered

- Basic R syntax
- Foundational R programming concepts (data types, vectors arithmetic, indexing)
- Performing operations in R (sorting, data wrangling using dplyr, plotting)

Matched Skills and Levels from NCF Competencies

• SA20.1 Beginner: Can install and use R packages.

• SA20.2 Beginner: Can search, identify and use functions from packages.

• SA20.3 Beginner: Can import data into R and manipulate/clean using preferred package or base R.

• SA20.4 Beginner: Able to comment code.

• SA20.5 Beginner: Able to run RMarkdown/Quarto documents and/or Shiny apps.