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CDS‑DS‑6XX: Digital Investigations for Journalists

🎓 • Boston University

CDS‑DS‑6XX: Digital Investigations for Journalists (Proposed)

Course Overview

A hands-on course in computational investigative journalism, emphasizing structured inquiry, reproducibility, and data ethics. Students learn to gather, verify, and analyze data at scale using techniques like scraping, FOIA, notebook-based workflows, and code-based storytelling.

Proposed Course Design

Notes: Proposed by me as part of the CJ curriculum. Not yet offered. Previously referred to internally as “Data Jo 2.”

Learning Objectives

Students will master computational journalism skills including:

  1. Data Acquisition: Web scraping, API usage, and FOIA best practices
  2. Data Verification: Techniques for validating and cross-checking information
  3. Reproducible Workflows: Using notebooks and version control for transparency
  4. Investigative Methods: Structured approaches to data-driven investigations
  5. Data Ethics: Responsible practices for sensitive information handling
  6. Code-based Storytelling: Integrating analysis with narrative journalism

Proposed Course Structure

  • Project-based Learning: Students conduct original investigative projects
  • Technical Skills: Hands-on training in data collection and analysis tools
  • Ethical Framework: Emphasis on responsible data journalism practices
  • Collaboration: Working with newsrooms and investigative organizations
  • Public Presentation: Final projects published as data journalism pieces

Key Technical Skills

  • Web Scraping: Automated data collection from websites and databases
  • API Integration: Working with government and institutional data sources
  • FOIA Strategies: Effective use of Freedom of Information Act requests
  • Data Cleaning: Preparing messy real-world data for analysis
  • Statistical Analysis: Basic quantitative methods for investigative reporting
  • Visualization: Creating compelling charts and interactive graphics

Investigative Focus Areas

  • Government Accountability: Using public records for transparency reporting
  • Corporate Investigation: Financial and regulatory data analysis
  • Social Justice: Data-driven reporting on inequality and discrimination
  • Environmental Reporting: Analysis of pollution, climate, and environmental justice data
  • Election Integrity: Campaign finance, voting patterns, and electoral analysis

Course Innovation

Combines traditional investigative journalism methods with modern computational tools, preparing students for the evolving landscape of data-driven journalism.

Industry Connections

Strong partnerships with investigative newsrooms and organizations to provide real-world context and potential publication opportunities for student work.