Politics and Ethics of Data Analytics in the Public Sector

Christopher Brooks is an Associate Professor in the School of Information at the University of Michigan, where he specializes in designing tools to enhance teaching and learning experiences in higher education. His research focuses on the application of learning analytics within human-computer interaction, utilizing methods from educational data mining, machine learning, and information visualization. Brooks has published extensively in these areas and is actively involved in directing the Educational Technology Collective, which includes postdoctoral scholars and students collaborating on innovative projects. He teaches various courses related to applied data science and has contributed to online education platforms such as Coursera. His work aims to leverage data to improve educational outcomes and foster better learning environments.

Paula Lantz is the James B. Hudak Professor of Health Policy at the Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy and a University Professor of Diversity and Social Transformation at the University of Michigan. As a social demographer and social epidemiologist, her research focuses on how public policy can improve population health and reduce health disparities. Currently, Dr. Lantz is investigating critical issues such as abortion policy, housing policy, and the exacerbation of social and health inequities due to COVID-19. She has been recognized as an elected member of both the National Academy of Social Insurance and the National Academy of Medicine.Dr. Lantz teaches various courses that equip students with analytical skills in public policy, including "Assisting Public Sector Decision Makers With Policy Analysis" and "Politics and Ethics of Data Analytics in the Public Sector." With advanced degrees in sociology and epidemiology, she combines rigorous academic research with practical policy implications, aiming to foster social change through informed decision-making.