Introduction to Data Engineering

4 Weeks

Introduction to Data Engineering

This four-week course introduces participants to the world of data engineering. It covers the essential roles and responsibilities of a data engineer, the fundamental concepts of data infrastructure, and an overview of key tools and technologies used in the industry. The course is designed to provide a solid foundation for those new to data engineering or those looking to transition into this fast-growing field.


Detailed Syllabus:


Week 1: Understanding the Role of a Data Engineer

  • Overview of data engineering and its importance in the data ecosystem.
  • Key roles and responsibilities of data engineers.
  • Understanding the difference between data engineers, data scientists, and data analysts.


Week 2: Basic Data Infrastructure

  • Introduction to data infrastructure components: Databases, data warehouses, data lakes.
  • Overview of data storage solutions: SQL vs. NoSQL, on-premises vs. cloud storage.
  • Basic concepts of data integration and orchestration.


Week 3: Tools and Technologies in Data Engineering

  • Introduction to essential tools for data ingestion, storage, processing, and management.
  • Exploring popular technologies like SQL databases, Hadoop, Apache Spark, and data integration tools like Apache NiFi and Talend.
  • Brief overview of programming languages used in data engineering, primarily Python and SQL.


Week 4: Building Your First Data Pipeline

  • Understanding the architecture of a simple data pipeline.
  • Hands-on project: Building a basic data pipeline using SQL and Python.
  • Introduction to monitoring and optimizing data pipelines.


Learning Outcomes:

  • Gain a clear understanding of what data engineering involves and the critical role it plays in today's data-driven environment.
  • Learn about different data storage and management technologies and when to use them.
  • Develop foundational skills in handling data using basic tools and constructing simple data pipelines.


This course includes video lectures, interactive quizzes, hands-on exercises, and a capstone project in the final week that allows students to apply what they've learned by building a simple data pipeline. This practical experience ensures that students not only understand the theoretical aspects but also gain confidence in applying their new skills in a real-world context.