Dr. Bob Lynch, Professor

Which class do you teach online?

MBA 605: Data Analytics and Visualization

What types of projects can online students expect in your course(s)?

First (I hope) it will be rewarding, interesting and enjoyable for all. A student should expect a range of activities. These include weekly assignments and an analytics project.

Why did you start teaching?

The individuals who most impacted my life were teachers. Teaching is a job that is never boring, almost always enjoyable and very challenging. I've been doing it for a long time and have found it to be "not work" or "just a job;" it's been a lifetime of fun for me.

What advice would you give to those considering this online program?

Go for it! I've been amazed at how much I have learned through online experiences. Technology is rewriting how information and learning are delivered across one's lifetime.

What is the one book you think everyone should read?

"Ivy Portfolio" by Mebane Faber

What do you want students to learn in these courses? What is the expected learning outcome?

A general understanding of "big data," statistical "data snooping" techniques and data visualization techniques. I'd like to see students become skilled in working with large data sets and in extracting useful information from the analysis—and then use tools to visualize their analysis for others.

Tell us something interesting about yourself that your students might not know about you.

I am an options trader in the stock market. I trade options on the S&P almost daily as well as a few other liquid issues. Very much related to analytics and visualization. It's been a lifetime pursuit that I talk little about.