Power of Data Analysis: The Donation of Gemini Data of FJCU

Author: Andrea Hsu

Gemini Data is a startup backed by Systex, which is famous for simplifying complex data through visual knowledge graphs. One notable feature of the software is Gemini Explore, which enables users to uncover relationships and patterns in data without requiring specialized query languages or coding skills. That is, with Gemini Data’s assistance, users can translate the raw data into meaningful illustrations. Additionally, the platform's no-code interface lowers the barrier to entry, ultimately saving time and resources while increasing productivity. Furthermore, the integration of ChatGPT into Gemini Data’s operations has given students a glimpse into the future of data analysis. With the combination of AI tools and knowledge graph designs, students can effectively connect relations across multiple datasets.

The introduction of Gemini Data to FJCU began with Johnny Lin, the CEO of Gemini Data, proposing the idea of offering the course. As an alumnus of the English Department, Johnny noticed the potential of non-STEM students to excel in data analysis. Meanwhile, since the College of Foreign Languages and Literatures are proposing the iLink program, the faculty member invited Mr. Lin to teach the class, leading to the creation of the course Connect the Dots: Data Contextualization.

According to the interview with Professor Kate Liu, Dean of the College of Foreign Languages and Literatures, she shared that the collaboration reflects the department's vision of equipping students with analytical skills.  However, implementing the program was not without challenges. The course is instructed by Prof. Liu and Mr. Lin. One notable issue was Mr. Lin’s limited availability due to his full-time role as a CEO. Since he is not a full-time teacher, he faces limitations in dedicating time to participating every week. In order to cover the syllabus, he combines the course with industry insights and applied projects. For instance, he provided a technology industry overview of how data analysis could be used in supply chains. Likewise, some classes are designed for students to interact directly with engineers from Gemini Data, so they can learn from them. Sometimes engineers can not understand students' questions due to technical issues, it fostered a proactive approach to learning in raising questions. 

On the other hand, another challenge was access to Gemini Explore. “Because Gemini Data typically operates with a subscription fee, students initially could not log into the platform, which facilitated the donation of accounts for student use.” Prof. Kate remarked on the consequences of starting the course. Therefore, students are also taught with Neo4J, the partner program of Gemini Data, for it opens more access to free users, and students are available to continue to analyze knowledge graphs. 

  Following the syllabus, students are required to team up with three people into groups and start business proposal projects. They are encouraged to choose their topics and use sources on open data like Kaggle and governmental datasets. One team used a governmental open dataset to solve the problem of road safety. They began with the perspective of a product manager and tried to implement their application with the alert function. By concluding the most frequent car accident results, the system will notify the driver if the transportation is detected in certain areas. Another team used open data to investigate the relationship between beverage ingredients and their price to help stores choose to purchase alternatives based on their needs. “We plan to open another advanced class for those who are interested in knowledge graphs,” Prof. Kate said. “We teachers are not to provide all the knowledge but to create an environment for learning.” She hopes that students can cultivate a proactive learning attitude through this class to prepare for future employment.

In sum, the course not only equips students with essential skills for data-driven careers but also fosters a growth mindset of innovation. With its strong partnership with Systex, the College of Foreign Languages and Literatures is setting a new standard for integrating technology into humanities education. By showcasing the success of the collaboration, the department aims to inspire students to enroll in the class of Data Contextualization in the 113-2 semester and join in the exploration of big data together.