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Jer Thorp
Data Artist, Writer, Researcher & Educator
Jer Thorp is a prominent figure in the field of data and machine learning, currently serving as the Project Lead at Knowing Machines, a research initiative focused on understanding the histories, practices, and politics surrounding machine learning systems and their training datasets. His work emphasizes critical methodologies for analyzing how these datasets shape knowledge and inform algorithmic decision-making.
Background and Experience
Thorp has a diverse background that includes roles as a co-founder and creative director at FieldKit, where he has worked on projects that integrate data science with storytelling. He also holds an adjunct professor position in the Interactive Telecommunications Program (ITP) at New York University, where he teaches about the intersection of technology, data, and society.56
Research Interests
At Knowing Machines, Thorp collaborates with an international team to develop tools and methodologies that contribute to critical data studies. The project aims to unpack complex issues related to how datasets are constructed and their implications for machine learning applications.13 His research often intersects with citizen science and explores how machine learning can transform our interactions with nature through projects like Visipedia.2
Thorp's work is recognized for its emphasis on adding narrative and meaning to large data sets, helping individuals better understand the information that influences their lives.4
Highlights
Join me for my 5-week course on birds & data, and you'll learn all kinds of useful things. How to make dynamic data visualizations in JavaScript and how to describe bird songs. How to map animal movement from a API and how to tell a diving duck from a dabbling one. How to record nocturnal flight calls and how to find historical biodiversity data.
More profoundly, you'll change your brain!
Alongside the code work, Binoculars to Binomials participants go birding (at least) three times a week. While you're searching for sparrows and wondering at warblers, you'll be strengthening the neurons in your brain that are responsible for noticing and remembering detail.
More than that, you'll be cultivating a practice that has been shown to lower stress and improve overall well-being.
The autumn cohorts of Binoculars to Binomials start on September 11th. There are still a few spots open in both the morning and evening groups.
Find out more & register at https://lnkd.in/eUDyWsKv
Students, teachers, librarians and not-for-profit workers can use the code OVENBIRD for 25% off.
(Also, you get a super official certificate for completing the course, so you can definitely get your employer to pay for it!)
