Cloud Computing

Fundamentals of Data Science

MTH-361D | Spring 2025 | University of Portland

January 17, 2025

The guiding principle of data science is the data science life cycle.

The Data Science Life Cycle

Integrated Development Environment (IDE): Built specifically for R.

Cross-Platform: Available on Windows, macOS, and Linux.

User-Friendly: Simplifies coding, debugging, and visualizations.

Enhanced Productivity: Tools for managing projects, data, and outputs.

Cloud-Based Platform: Accessible from any device with an internet connection.
Developed by Posit (formerly RStudio): Tailored for statistics and data science.
No Installation Needed: Run R and RStudio directly in your browser.

Convenience: No installation required; access RStudio instantly through the internet.
Consistency: Same environment across devices.
Collaboration: Share projects with students and instructors easily.
Cost-Effective: Free tier available with premium options for advanced features.

Posit Cloud Computing

The Working Directory

An R script is a file with an extension “.R”. It can contain lines of R commands that you can define and run individual lines or run multiple lines.

R Script File Example

Running R Commands in Different Ways

Go to this course’s workspace in Posit Cloud and click the R Studio “Project” named Mini-Assignment 1: Create a Simple R Script. This will create a copy for you.
Try rerunning the R script named simple-r-script_example.R.
Create a new R script and save it as my-simple-r-script.R. In your script:
- Write in your name as a comment.
- Create 5 single line R commands with comments as labels similar to the example.
Export your R script file, then submit it in Moodle.