The New World Order of Hans Rosling

This was such an incredible video that I can't describe all the ways that I enjoyed it. Hans Rosling is a very rare man. Having worked in the world of data analysis and online databases, it is rare to find someone that intelligent and skilled who can also give an interesting briefing. I have known some brilliant data analysts... but someone has to wake you up for the important points in the briefings. This was exciting and the way the data was used was so interesting.

From the perspective of a social studies teacher, it was so interesting to see a view of the world that wasn't just about the "Have's" and "Have Not's". The world order has changed and is continuing to change. Its refreshing to see someone talk about the new world order with current data that supports current conclusions. Our world needs more information like this so that people can understand what is happening. Maybe if there were more people showing this level of information in an understandable way, at least part of the third world might stop blaming the USA for all their woes.

From an educational perspective, I am a little more leary of what I saw in the video. But I still like the idea of making information more available to students and those who want to learn. If tools can be developed to export that information in an understandable fashion, it can only imporve the learning of our students.

On the other hand, I am somewhat trained in data analysis. I took several classes in this area to support the database work I did for my degrees. I know enough to know that this can be a dangerous tool that can lead to many bad decisions. True data analysis and database management means you have to have an understanding of how data is related and how to normalize the data. You have to have a fair bit of math under your belt to understand the error inherent in the data. Without a very strong background, the average data consumer will not be able to analyze the data correctly to be able to make GOOD decisions. To draw a bad analogy, this is like putting a loaded weapon in the hands of a 3-year old. I have seen corporate executives with trained IT support pull the wrong data to make decisions that destroyed product lines. I have seen school administrators take standardized test (NECAP) data and make recommendations that do not even address the student shortfalls. Before turning powerful databases and analysis tools over to anyone that wants to use them, as IT professionals we need to educate the people on how to use the tools and understand the results.