Students in a journalism-focused research course identify a publicly available dataset (or create their own), analyze this data using spreadsheets, suggest a series of potential stories based on their data, write one in-depth article based upon their analysis and reporting, and visualize the data using a range of multimedia tools. Their work is presented on two news websites: Towson Data Stories and the Baltimore Watchdog.

In spring 2019, students produced data journalism projects on the future of work and higher education. Working in teams, they conducted original research (e.g., surveys, interviews and content analyses) and analyzed existing data on topics such as automation, the gig economy, online education and study abroad. Their work is featured on the Baltimore Watchdog website.

In fall 2018, students examined STEM diversity, campus facilities, hazing, coaches’ pay, food deserts, and retention and graduation rates.

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In spring 2018, students examined Towson-related data on campus crime, faculty diversity/pay, student life/demographics, college athletics and city/county issues.

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In previous semesters, students tackled issues away from campus: sports geography, sports travel, the heroin crisis, the growth of solar energy, film and TV awards, and diversity in Hollywood and Broadway.