I grew to loathe math in school, which culminated in me getting a “D” in one semester of algebra.
So it seems nuts that I would have ended up in data analytics, right?
It really shouldn’t: thinking that you can’t because you didn’t like math in school is one of five myths about learning analytics I’ve identified. Here they all are:
Myth 1: I need to go to school for that
Data analytics is a highly technical field, so you may think you need a degree or diploma for it. I did too, as my two master’s degrees attest. Take it from my experience in both the academic and the bootcamp/online learning worlds of data education: you do not need a degree to learn data analytics.
In fact, the training you receive at a traditional academic institution is likely to be outdated. You’ll be taught by faculty who do not have their ear toward the ground in industry developments, but are instead toward the echo chamber of academic publishing.
There are so many cost-effective ways of learning data analytics on your own — and, even better, forward-thinking organizations are bringing quality data education to you as part of their upskilling initiatives (more on that later). While the high-dollar degree may have its uses, I do not suggest you start there in your analytics learning journey.
It’s important for law firms to streamline the onboarding process with automated workflows to enhance efficiency, reduce manual errors, and ensure consistency in client experiences.
Myth 2: I won’t like it because I don’t like math
Many of us, like me, had bad experiences learning math in school. So, you may say you “don’t like math,” but do you really not? Mathematics is absolutely core to analytics, but so is computational, technological and business thinking.
Imagine using math as a means of expression and creativity in your job and life rather than just to solve a frigid equation on the blackboard. That’s what data analytics does. Don’t let your supposed math-phobia hold you back.
Myth 3: I don’t need it to do my job
You may have no interest in becoming a data analyst or data scientist, but you do need some ability in basic data analysis to future-proof your career.
To take an example, let’s look at Amazon’s Upskiling 2025 initiative. Among the first titles listed in the press release are data mapping specialist and data scientist, along with roles like business analyst and logistics coordinator.
Nearly all these roles use data! For some, “data” is even in the title. For others, data powers the role implicitly: such as a logistics coordinator, forecasting and tracking inventory, and a process improvement manager, modeling tasks and relationships.
So, while you don’t have to aspire to be a data scientist to provide value in the future workforce, you do need some comfort with data analytics.
Myth 4: I only need it to do my job
I hope I convinced you in Myth 3 that you should learn a bit of data analytics regardless of your career plans. Let me build on that in this myth.
Data analytics is not simply technical or vocational training: done right, learning data analytics will give you another way to engage with the world.
“Data literacy” is a popular term, but I don’t know that we give it its proper due: it’s often seen as the quality of being able to use data effectively at your job. However, I would argue that data literacy, like regular literacy, starts with having fun and enjoying data.
As you learn analytics, you may find yourself building more spreadsheets to track activities, then analyzing that data. This could be your walking routine, or what songs you’ve listened to. Maybe they’re not work-related, but they’re valuable data analytics learning projects, too.
Myth 5: I’m not the right “type”
Computer science professor Mark Guzdial mentions that many students feel they lack the “geek gene:” when it comes to learning tech, either you get it or you don’t… “and I don’t.”
Data analytics is a highly technical field so impostor syndrome is rampant. You will feel like you are a clueless fraud from time to time.
I shudder to think of how many potential data analysts have turned away from the field because they felt they didn’t have the right socioeconomic, demographic or education background.
I promise, if you enjoy working with computers, solving problems and improving businesses, there’s a place in data analytics for you. It’s incumbent upon us as a community to help show you the way, with your hard work.
Fact: You can learn data analytics
What myths have you overcome in your data analytics learning journey? Which ones are you still facing? If you’re interested in learning, what do you feel is holding you back? Please let me know in the comments.
If I can be of service in kick-starting your journey, please get in touch. You can get started by signing up for my newsletter and exclusive free access to my learning analytics resource library below. You’re also welcome to drop me a line or schedule a free call at my contact page.
I look forward to reconstructing your attitude toward analytics!
Leave a Reply