Machine Learning and Predictive Analytics
| Code | School | Level | Credits | Semesters |
| BUSI4391 | Nottingham University Business School China | 4 | 20 | Spring China |
- Code
- BUSI4391
- School
- Nottingham University Business School China
- Level
- 4
- Credits
- 20
- Semesters
- Spring China
Summary
This module covers core predictive models and their motivation within business use cases. Introduces the key techniques that underpin this increasingly relevant field along with their evaluation (e.g. measures of success, cross validation, A-B
testing). Students will establish knowledge of state-of-the-art prediction techniques including classification models (e.g. decision trees/forests, SVMs), Nearest Neighbour models, Bayesian methods, Ensembles and Deep Learning. Practical
exercises will be set against a range of real world datasets and time series data. This module is jointly taught using SPSS modeller and Python, giving students practical experience in industrial workflow data modelling environments where applicable.
Target Students
MSc Business Analytics students
Classes
- One 2-hour lecture each week for 11 weeks
- One 2-hour computing each week for 11 weeks
Total Contact Hours 44 hours (4/week over 11 weeks) 200 hours in Total. Background study 22 hours Coursework: 124 hours Revision: 10 hours
Assessment
- 50% Coursework1: 4000-word group coursework (4-5 students form a group; 12 pages max) on a specified Business Analytics Project (50%)
- 50% Exam1 (2-hour): 2 Hours exam
Educational Aims
To develop an understanding of the use cases and utility of predictive analytics and the key role of machine learning in modern business analysis. To develop a practical ability to apply such algorithms in a business environment.Learning Outcomes
Knowledge and understanding This module develops a knowledge and understanding of:
Marketing and sales – different approaches for segmentation, targeting, positioning, generating sales, and the need for innovation in product and service design
Customers and stakeholders - customer expectations, service and orientation
The management of projects
Information systems and business intelligence - the development, management, application and implementation of information systems and their impact upon organisations
Tools and techniques for transforming (big) data into useful information for business analysis and decision support
Communications – the comprehension and use of relevant communications for application in business and management, including the use of digital tools
Digital business – the development of strategic priorities to deliver business at speed in an environment where digital technology is reshaping traditional revenue and business models, associated risk management
Intellectual Skills: This module develops:
Being able to think critically and be creative: manage the creative processes in self and others; organise thoughts, analyse, synthesise and critically appraise. This includes the capability to identify assumptions, evaluate statements in terms of evidence, detect false logic or reasoning, identify implicit values, define terms adequately and generalise appropriately
Being able to solve complex problems and make decisions: establish criteria, using appropriate decision-making techniques including identifying, formulating and solving business problems; and the ability to create, identify and evaluate options; the ability to implement and review decisions
Using information and knowledge effectively in order to abstract meaning from information and to share knowledge, including the use of quantitative skills
Professional Practical Skills: This module develops:
The ability to conduct research and enquiry into business and management issues either individually or as part of a team through research design, the collection and analysis of quantitative data, synthesis and reporting
The ability to recognise the need for and initiate change and to be able to manage change
The ability to recognise and address ethical dilemmas, corporate social responsibility and sustainability issues, applying ethical and organisational values to situations and choices
Transferable (key) Skills: This module develops:
Effective communication: networking, listening, oral and written communication of complex ideas and arguments, using a range of media, including the preparation of business reports
High personal effectiveness: critical self-awareness, self-reflection and self-management; time management; conflict resolution, displaying commercial acumen, the ability to continue to learn through reflection on practice and experience
Soft skills: understanding the needs of others and empathy towards them; sensitivity to diversity in people and in different situations
Conveners
- Dr Qingxin Meng