Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/big-data-proyecto
The “Big Data: Capstone Project” course on Coursera is the final step in the Big Data Specialization, and it truly lives up to its name. This course offers a hands-on, practical application of the tools and methods learned in previous modules, culminating in a real-world project that mirrors the work done at the Port d’Informació Científica in Barcelona’s Cosmology department.
The core objective is to build a galaxy classifier using data from the Galaxy Zoo project and associated imagery. This isn’t just theoretical; you’re diving into a practical challenge that requires you to leverage your accumulated knowledge.
The course begins with setting up a virtual machine (MV-Cloudera). A crucial note here: if you’ve already installed this in a prior course of the specialization, you can skip this. For newcomers, be prepared for a substantial download and installation process, as the VM requires a 64-bit machine with at least 6GB of RAM (8GB recommended) and 20GB of disk space. Patience is key, but it’s a necessary foundation for the work ahead.
**Module 1: Data Exploration** kicks off by introducing the project and the dataset. You’ll get acquainted with the files, perform preliminary data exploration, and lay the groundwork for handling larger data volumes. This is where you start to feel the scale of the project.
**Module 2: Data Modeling** moves into loading data into Hive and constructing a data model. You’ll also gain a deeper understanding of the task of classifying galaxies based on their shapes, a fundamental aspect of the project.
**Module 3: Classification** focuses on normalizing the data model and delving into user-provided votes. This module is critical for generating the necessary information to build an automatic classifier.
**Module 4: Machine Learning** introduces the galactic image dataset and prepares two Artificial Intelligence algorithms for automatic galaxy classification directly from images. This is where the predictive power starts to take shape.
**Module 5: Final Work** is the culmination. You’ll compile all your efforts into a final report, showcasing the work completed in the preceding weeks. This module tests your ability to synthesize and present your findings effectively.
**Recommendation:**
This capstone project is an excellent way to solidify your understanding of Big Data concepts. It’s challenging, rewarding, and provides a tangible project for your portfolio. If you’ve completed the earlier courses in the specialization, this is a must-do to round out your learning. It’s particularly recommended for anyone interested in data science, machine learning, or astrophysics, offering a unique blend of technical skills and scientific application. Be prepared to invest time and effort, but the skills and experience gained are well worth it.
Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/big-data-proyecto