Gender Data 101

Overview

Gender Data 101 is a course featuring live events with gender and data experts. The course begins with establishing a foundation of gender and data and ends with actionable steps to employ gender data to create impactful programs. The course delves into best practices, methodologies, and tools to utilize when working with gender data. Additionally, Gender Data 101 engages learners to limit biases, close gender gaps, and incorporate intersectional thinking throughout each step of the gender data lifecycle. 

Please note that this course was taught in February 2023 and some materials might refer to that time.

Module 1: Fundamentals of Gender Data

This module establishes a foundation for understanding both gender and data. It covers the difference between sex and gender, introduces data basics like data lifecycles, and explores how language shapes our perception.

1. Foundational Knowledge: You’ll gain a strong understanding of core concepts in gender and data, including the difference between sex and gender, and the importance of sex-disaggregated data.
2. Critical Data Analysis: Learn how to analyze data with a gender lens, identifying and mitigating biases throughout the data lifecycle (collection, cleaning, analysis, visualization).
3. Actionable Strategies: Develop skills to use gender data effectively. This includes designing programs that promote gender equality and using data to advocate for change.

Module 2: Gender Data Collection and Processing

This module focuses on the nitty-gritty of collecting, processing, and analyzing gender data. You’ll learn about common methods and tools, explore potential biases in data collection and processing, and revisit the course case study to apply these concepts. Interactive activities include identifying biases, pinpointing processing issues, and engaging in a discussion about a relevant case series. In this module, you’ll learn:

1. Examining Biases: We will cover the potential biases in the gender data lifecycle with hands-on activities.
2. Live Learning: Get chance to attend live event on data collection and policy impact in Countries with Anti-LGBT Legislation.
3. More Detail: Understand methods and tools for conducting effective data processing in greater detail.

Module 3: Gender Data Analysis

This module explores common challenges, frameworks to guide your analysis, and real-world examples. The course revisits the case study to help Dr. Lopez and Rumy with their next analysis steps. Interactive activities include analyzing a sample dataset, planning for COVID-19 data analysis, and reflecting on your learning journey so far.

1. Overcome Common Challenges: Gain knowledge about the typical challenges encountered during gender data analysis. This might include issues with data quality, representation, or access, and how to address them.
2. Apply Analysis to Real-World Scenarios: Learn to apply gender data analysis techniques to a specific case study or real-world situation, such as the provided COVID-19 data analysis activity. This will allow you to practice your skills and see the practical applications of gender data analysis.

Module 4: Gender Data Visualization

This module focuses on transforming data into clear visuals. You’ll learn the basics of gender data visualization, explore frameworks and tools, and delve into visual design principles. The course revisits the case study to help Dr. Lopez and Rumy visualize their data. Interactive activities include critiquing an existing COVID-19 visualization and brainstorming ideas for the final course project. In this module, you’ll learn:

1. Principles of Gender Data Visualization: Gain a foundational understanding of what gender data visualization is and the key considerations involved in creating effective visualizations that accurately represent gender data.
2. Data Visualization Frameworks and Tools: Develop knowledge of different frameworks (approaches) and tools used to visualize data effectively. 3. Design for Clarity and Impact: Learn how to design data visualizations that are clear, aesthetically pleasing, and impactful.

Module 5: Gender Data Uptake and Impact

This module focuses on using your data to create real-world change. You’ll explore the challenges of data uptake and how to measure its impact. The course revisits the case study to help Dr. Lopez and Rumy develop plans for impact. Key activities include crafting project descriptions, developing stakeholder personas, and engaging in a course-wide discussion on intersectionality. In this module, you’ll learn:

1. Developing a Gender Data Impact Plan: Gain the ability to create a comprehensive plan outlining how to use gender data to achieve desired outcomes.
2. Tailoring Communication for Stakeholders: Develop skills to understand different stakeholders and tailor communication approaches accordingly. This involves creating project descriptions, value statements, and stakeholder personas to ensure effective communication and buy-in for gender data projects.
3. Applying Intersectionality to Gender Data: Learn how to incorporate the concept of intersectionality into your work with gender data. This involves understanding how various social identities (race, class, gender identity, etc.) can interact and influence data analysis and outcomes.

Gender Data Case Study

Provided by DataBit