Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Fall 2026 - SDA 250 D100

Computational Text Analysis (4)

Class Number: 3883

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Sep 9 – Dec 7, 2026: Tue, Thu, 2:30–4:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

Introduces basics of text analysis through Python programming. Core concepts include: data capture and manipulation; data cleaning and preprocessing; database management; big data; natural language processing; introductory machine learning; text classification. Students with credit for LING 250 may not take this course for further credit.

COURSE DETAILS:

This is a combined course with LING 250.

COURSE DELIVERY: In-person. Students are responsible for all content discussed in lecture in oral or written form.

Grading

  • In-class check-ins 10%
  • Assignments 30%
  • Labs 30%
  • Final exam [during exam week] 30%

NOTES:

Students should familiarize themselves with the Department's Standards on Class Management and Student Responsibilities.

Please note that a grade of “FD” (Failed-Dishonesty) may be assigned as a penalty for academic dishonesty.

All student requests for accommodations for their religious practices must be made in writing by the end of the first week of classes or no later than one week after a student adds a course.

REQUIREMENTS:

PLATFORMS USED:
We will use Canvas to turn in assignments, manage grades, and have asynchronous discussions.

TECHNOLOGY REQUIRED:
A computer with internet access and the ability to install software.

Materials

MATERIALS + SUPPLIES:

No Textbook is Required. The readings will be available at Canvas.

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

At SFU, you are expected to act honestly and responsibly in all your academic work. Cheating, plagiarism, or any other form of academic dishonesty harms your own learning, undermines the efforts of your classmates who pursue their studies honestly, and goes against the core values of the university.

To learn more about the academic disciplinary process and relevant academic supports, visit: 


RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION

Students with a faith background who may need accommodations during the term are encouraged to assess their needs as soon as possible and review the Multifaith religious accommodations website. The page outlines ways they begin working toward an accommodation and ensure solutions can be reached in a timely fashion.