Sprint #8

Why: You will not have a single in-person first class because teams begin meeting immediately. This video provides the key information you need to get started in the course.

What: Watch the recorded first day of class video. It was recorded in Fall 2025, but all information is still relevant.

Note: If your Corporate Partner uses a different environment, no additional action is needed.

Why: Project work for Seminar and some Corporate Partners is conducted in Anvil. An ACCESS account ensures you can access the required computing environment when needed.

What: Create one ACCESS account to log in to Anvil by following the instructions at Setting Up Accounts for The Data Mine. Do not repeat this step if you have already set it up for Seminar.

Why: The Data Mine uses MS Teams as one of our primary communication tools. You will need to download MS Teams to your computer. Your team SHOULD NOT use any other form of communication (e.g., Slack, Discord, etc.) unless approved by The Data Mine staff and your mentor.

What: Review this page about MS Teams in The Data Mine. Download MS Teams Desktop App to your computer (and phone if you would like).

Why: Team Contracts are the foundation of a successful team, helping members understand expectations, establish norms, and define accountability. During a TA-facilitated discussion, teams will review their contract to identify what is working well, what may need clarification or updates, and how accountability will be enforced if expectations are not met. New students should use this opportunity to familiarize themselves with the contract and align with their team, while returning students should reflect on its effectiveness and contribute suggestions to improve clarity and usability.

What: After reviewing your Team Contract and participating in the TA-facilitated discussion, complete the reflection:

Why: Generative AI tools are widely available and increasingly used in academic and professional settings. This activity is designed to help you think critically about when and how GenAI should be used as a learning support, rather than relying on it automatically.

What: Watch the provided video on Cheating or Learning? Walking the AI tightrope in education (approximately 15 minutes). Do not use a GenAI tool to summarize the video. After watching, reflect on the questions posed and write your own thoughtful responses based on your experiences and perspectives.

Why: Responsible data handling is a core expectation for Data Mine students. This certification ensures you understand best practices related to data privacy, security, and ethical use of data, which are essential for academic work and Corporate Partner projects.

What: Complete the required data handling training based on your student status.

Note: If you believe that data was incorrectly handled or shared, please notify datamine@purdue.edu immediately.

Why: Utilizing a Kanban board is essential for a team’s success in The Data Mine. Returning students, reflect on how effectively you used the Kanban board during the fall semester. New students, learn to use the Kanban board effectively, as it will be crucial for tracking your projects in The Data Mine.

What: Watch the following video Intro to Kanban (5 minutes) OR read this Article .

Why: Students in The Data Mine Corporate Partners program meet with their Corporate Partner Mentors online via Microsoft Teams every week. Conducting oneself professionally in a virtual setting is a crucial skill to develop. Returning students should reflect on their experiences from the fall 2025 semester, noting what went well and identifying areas for improvement. New students should familiarize themselves with the do’s and don’ts of these meetings to ensure they make a positive impression

What: Both new and returning students should review the information and watch the video on effective participation in virtual meetings Online Meeting "Net-etiquette"