The Digital Futures Lab (DFL) is a studio based Summer School and an integral part of the Msc in Business Analytics. Using a design approach participants will work to address complex organisational and societal problems through mapping, analysis and creative thinking. The main focus is on making things, testing and iterative development and embodiment of ideas. Reflection, critique and constant questioning ensure all ideas are robustly tested and refined ideally leading to the emergence of one or a number of solutions that best address the challenges under exploration.

1. Problem discovery and framing: critical reflection on the nature of the problems(s) to be addressed in the studio 2. Problem definition and writing the brief: critical evaluation of the problem framings identified in phase 1; which matters most, which should be acted on first, what is feasible? 3. Development: solutions or concepts are created, prototyped, tested and iterated 4. Deliver: final solution is finalised produced and presented

1. Synthesis programme learning through a process of application directed to address real life complex problem(s) 2. Evaluate the nature and role of data as it is put to use to solve complex organisational and societal challenges 3. Communicate analytical derived solutions at a high level

1. Synthesis programme learning through a process of application directed to address real life complex problem(s) 2. Evaluate the nature and role of data as it is put to use to solve complex organisational and societal challenges 3. Communicate analytical derived solutions at a high level

N/A

The module will be delivered using a studio approach over a 3 week period in the summer term. The objective of the studio model is "to practice professional skills in small groups where one's professional skills are challenged by others - both peers and mentors" (Heikkinen, et al. 2015). Students form and work in interdisciplinary teams, where they will respond to a design challenge around an identified issue or theme; use design approaches and techniques as process, and bring a model/ idea to prototype phase, through a range of iterations and feedback sessions. Students will be graded on both a group and individual basis. • Knowledgeable - Demonstrate Critical Thinking; Gain Insight into latest developments in the problem domain. • Proactive - Involve local and national enterprise/organisations through industry learning partnerships in the use of digital analytics. • Creative - working in teams, developing and iterating solutions to complex problems and communicating solutions in a compelling manner • Responsible - Appreciate the importance of ethical practice with regard to the use of data to address organisational and societal challenges. • Collaborative - working closely in teams • Articulate - need to communicate final solutions in a multi model and compelling manner The contact lab hours will often be self-directed due to the creative nature of the module and the team-based activities involved.