Leveraging AI for Data Analysis and Insights

published: 2025/04/22
contact: UNO Division of Innovative and Learning-Centric Initiatives (ILCI)
email: innovate@unomaha.edu

Illustration of a person analyzing data on a computer with magnifying glass, globe icon, and charts, accompanied by the title "Leveraging AI for Data Analysis and Insights".

Analyzing large datasets quickly and accurately is critical for advancing research and making data-driven decisions. At the University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO), several projects use artificial intelligence to improve data analysis and extract valuable insights. Here are three initiatives that demonstrate how AI is enhancing analytical capabilities across campus.

AI in Criminology and Criminal Justice Statistics

Project Lead: Ling Ren

In the graduate course CRCJ 8950, Ling Ren is incorporating ChatGPT to help students navigate complex statistical concepts and analyses. Students use AI to visualize data, interpret statistical outputs, and connect findings to real-world criminal justice issues. By critiquing AI-generated interpretations and addressing its limitations, students develop a deeper understanding of statistics and the ethical use of AI in research.

Enhanced Engagement with Archival Sources

Project Lead: Danielle Battisti

Danielle Battisti is applying AI to analyze over 100,000 pages of primary documents related to historical immigration and international migration. By summarizing data and conducting statistical analyses, the AI tool helps uncover patterns and insights that would be difficult to identify manually. The project aims to produce scholarly articles, public-facing resources, and an interactive GIS map showcasing migration trends, enriching academic research and public understanding.

AI for Budget Analysis

Project Lead: Tammy Goldsberry

To improve financial decision-making, Tammy Goldsberry is using AI to analyze UNO’s budget data. The project involves advanced staffing ratio calculations, budget allocation reviews, and comparisons of actual versus projected spending. By generating models and visualizing trends, AI tools help identify opportunities for optimization, guiding the development of a new budget model for Academic Affairs units.

Unlocking the Potential of AI in Data Analysis

From criminal justice and historical research to university budgeting, AI transforms how we analyze and interpret data. These projects highlight the versatility of AI in uncovering actionable insights, improving accuracy, and enhancing efficiency across diverse fields.

About the University of Nebraska at Omaha

Located in one of America’s best cities to live, work and learn, the University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO) is Nebraska’s premier metropolitan university. With more than 15,000 students enrolled in 200-plus programs of study, UNO is recognized nationally for its online education, graduate education, military friendliness and community engagement efforts. Founded in 1908, UNO has served learners of all backgrounds for more than 100 years and is dedicated to another century of excellence both in the classroom and in the community.