Exploring Data Science with Margarida Fernandes - A Beyond Tech Series
Welcome to Episode 2 of Beyond Tech where we dive deep into the world of data and its transformative power. Hosted by Digital Data Analyst Patrícia Afonso, this episode shines a spotlight on Data Science, the cutting-edge discipline reshaping industries around the globe. Joining Patrícia is Margarida Fernandes, a talented Data Scientist who shares her insights into the tools, challenges, and trends shaping the field today.
Contents
What Is Data Science? Breaking Down the Basics
Data Science is the intersection of mathematics, statistics, and computer science, enabling professionals to solve real-world problems by extracting actionable insights from both structured and unstructured data.
“It all starts with a business question. From there, we collect, clean, and model data to deliver meaningful answers,” Margarida explains.
The episode unpacks how Data Science goes beyond traditional analytics, using advanced machine learning and predictive modelling techniques to create scalable, high-performance solutions.
Data Science vs. Data Analytics: What’s the Difference?
Although closely related, Data Science and Data Analytics serve distinct purposes. While analysts focus on generating actionable insights for immediate decision-making, Data Scientists tackle more complex challenges, developing algorithms and predictive models.
Patrícia and Margarida emphasise the importance of collaboration between these roles, which together can produce deeper and more accurate insights for organisations.
The Biggest Challenges for Data Scientists
Margarida highlights some of the complexities that come with working in Data Science, from managing ever-changing datasets to navigating the fast-paced evolution of tools and techniques. She discusses the importance of strong data governance and the shared struggles many professionals face when unexpected issues arise. These insights underscore the resilience and adaptability required in this dynamic field.
Emerging Trends: ML Ops and the Rise of AI
The episode welcomes Christoph Boden, Lead Data Engineer, who introduces the concept of Machine Learning Operations (ML Ops). These emerging tools make it easier for smaller teams to deploy and manage machine learning models at scale.
Margarida also discusses her enthusiasm for large language models (LLMs) like ChatGPT, which are transforming industries with their advanced reasoning and problem-solving capabilities.
The Role of AI in Business and Daily Life
AI is already driving innovation in sectors like healthcare, marketing, and customer support. Margarida shares her vision of AI’s future impact, particularly in healthcare, where predictive models are revolutionising disease detection.
However, as AI expands, so do ethical concerns. Margarida stresses the need for governments, academia, and tech organisations to collaborate and establish regulations that ensure responsible AI development.
Watch Episode 2 Now!
Dive into this exciting conversation with Margarida Fernandes and Patrícia Afonso on YouTube. Click here to uncover the fascinating world of Data Science!
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