IPSI Lecture: “Discovery and Delight in Big Data”

Google mag in Deutschland (noch) nicht viel eigene Forschung betreiben (nein, das neue Alexander-von-Humboldt-Institut für Internet und Gesellschaft ist kein “Google-Institut”), aber das Potential liegt eindeutig vor, wie diese Lecture-Einladung aus Kanada zeigt:

— cut —

IPSI Public Lecture Series: “Discovery and Delight in Big Data”

with Colin McKay, Public Policy, Google

November 7th, 2011
4:00 p.m. to 5:45 p.m.
(including Q & A)

Bahen Centre, 40 St. George Street, Room BA 1200
University of Toronto (St. George Campus)

Abstract:

Big data – extraordinary data sets, flexible computing architecture and precise algorithmic analysis – can shed light on difficult scientific problems. It can uncover associations among data trends and pinpoint inflection points. It can inform public policy decisions. Oh, and help focus your purchasing decisions. Trust, represented in part by data protection safeguards, is an essential part of the big data ecosystem. As our interactions with data-based services, sensor-based tools and integrated data networks multiplies, how does this ecosystem remain effective and trustworthy? Drawing on real life examples, this talk will discuss how big data is fueling innovation and revitalizing public policy.

Biography:

Colin is on Google’s global public policy team, where he tries to keep the internet brimming with discovery and delight. He has developed initiatives focused on data protection, science and technology, innovation policy, intellectual property and open government. Most recently, he was the Director, Research, Education and Outreach with the Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada.

Always fascinated by information networks and new technology, he blogs and tweets more than he probably should. As a pre-teen, he preferred his Star Wars digital watch to the Casio calculator watch.

Colin has an M.A in international relations from the University of Toronto, although his understanding of politics was largely shaped by Monty Python.