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Coursera

Using APIs in Research

via Coursera

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Overview

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This practical course takes you through the process of selecting an appropriate API, using a client to collect data, and preprocessing data ahead of analysis. Knowledge of languages isn’t required, but additional activities are provided if you’re proficient in Python or R.

Syllabus

  • The Research Values of APIs
    • This module explores the diverse ways APIs can support research by enabling access to a wide range of digital data sources. You will examine how APIs can be used to address different research objectives, develop an understanding of API structures and requests, and explore the various protocols, architectures, and access methods that researchers encounter when working with API-based data.
  • Making Sense of API Documentation
    • This module introduces the purpose and importance of API documentation as a key resource for working effectively with APIs. You will learn how to navigate and interpret API documentation, identify the technical information needed to access and use APIs, and apply best practices for understanding API specifications to support successful data collection and research.
  • Using APIs Via Different Clients
    • This module provides a hands-on introduction to making and working with API calls using a range of popular tools and clients. You will learn how to use API documentation to create and test requests, gain practical experience with tools such as Postman and cURL, and compare different approaches to accessing API data so you can choose the methods and tools best suited to your research needs.
  • Getting Your Data Ready for Analysis
    • This module focuses on preparing API data for analysis by working with the JSON data formats commonly returned by web APIs. You will learn how to validate and process API responses, apply essential data preprocessing techniques, and transform complex nested JSON structures into formats that are suitable for analysis, helping you turn raw API data into usable research datasets.
  • Using APIs in Research Glossary and References
    • In addition to the glossary you’ll find woven throughout the course, you can find the full glossary collated in one place here.

Taught by

Sage Instructors

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