Public Interest Data Literacy (PIDLit) Learning Lab, “Tackling Food Insecurity”

Georgia State University’s Library Research Data Services (RDS) Department launched the Public Interest Data Literacy (PIDLit) Learning Lab, a grant-funded experiential learning course titled “Tackling Food Insecurity.” Offered in Fall 2023 and Spring 2024, the course connected students with local organizations—Panther’s Pantry, Wholesome Wave Georgia, MARTA Markets, and ATLytiCS—to apply data skills toward addressing food insecurity in the metro-Atlanta area. Students engaged in hands-on data collection and analysis through three research studies: surveys of GSU students and MARTA riders examining food insecurity experiences, and a qualitative analysis of focus groups evaluating Wholesome Wave Georgia’s Food for Health program.

The project exemplifies Public Interest Technology by showcasing how students can be pushed to use data for social good, blending technical learning with civic engagement. Many participants reported newfound confidence in data literacy, teamwork, and research communication, all skills that will prepare them for future careers in research, policy, and technology. The goal wasn’t just to spread awareness of the ongoing food crisis in the Metro Area, but to showcase how universities can bridge classroom learning with community impact.

Public Interest Data Literacy (PIDLit) Learning Lab, “Tackling Food Insecurity” is presented by Kokou Efou (Undergraduate Psychology Major, RDS Student Assistant) and Nicole Frysh (Undergraduate Anthropology Major, PITLit Representative), Georgia State University Library: Research Data Services (RDS) Department.