by jsendak | May 13, 2025 | DS Articles
[This article was first published on
R-posts.com, and kindly contributed to
R-bloggers]. (You can report issue about the content on this page
here)
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Join our workshop on Using LLMs with ellmer, which is a part of our workshops for Ukraine series!
Here’s some more info:
Title: Using LLMs with ellmer
Date: Friday, June 13th, 18:00 – 20:00 CEST (Rome, Berlin, Paris timezone)
Speaker: Hadley Wickham is Chief Scientist at Posit PBC, winner of the 2019 COPSS award, and a member of the R Foundation. He builds tools (both computational and cognitive) to make data science easier, faster, and more fun. His work includes packages for data science (like the tidyverse, which includes ggplot2, dplyr, and tidyr)and principled software development (e.g. roxygen2, testthat, and pkgdown). He is also a writer, educator, and speaker promoting the use of R for data science. Learn more on his website, <http://hadley.nz>.
Description: Join us for an engaging, hands-on hackathon workshop where you’ll learn to use large language models (LLMs) from R with the ellmer (https://ellmer.tidyverse.org) package. In this 2-hour session, we’ll combine theory with practical exercises to help you create AI-driven solutions—no extensive preparation needed!
## What you’ll learn:
– A quick intro to LLMs: what they’re good at and where they struggle
– How to use ellmer with different model providers (OpenAI, Anthropic, Google Gemini, and others)
– Effective prompt design strategies and practical applications for your work
– Function calling: how to let LLMs use R functions for tasks they can’t handle well
– Extracting structured data from text, images, and video using LLMs
## What you’ll need:
– A laptop with R installed
– The development version of ellmer (`pak::pak(“tidyverse/ellmer”))`
– An account with either Claude (cheap) or Google Gemini (free).
Follow the instructions at <github.com/hadley/workshop-llm-hackathon> to get setup.
Minimal registration fee: 20 euro (or 20 USD or 800 UAH)
Please note that the registration confirmation is sent 1 day before the workshop to all registered participants rather than immediately after registration
How can I register?
- Save your donation receipt (after the donation is processed, there is an option to enter your email address on the website to which the donation receipt is sent)
- Fill in the registration form, attaching a screenshot of a donation receipt (please attach the screenshot of the donation receipt that was emailed to you rather than the page you see after donation).
If you are not personally interested in attending, you can also contribute by sponsoring a participation of a student, who will then be able to participate for free. If you choose to sponsor a student, all proceeds will also go directly to organisations working in Ukraine. You can either sponsor a particular student or you can leave it up to us so that we can allocate the sponsored place to students who have signed up for the waiting list.
How can I sponsor a student?
- Save your donation receipt (after the donation is processed, there is an option to enter your email address on the website to which the donation receipt is sent)
- Fill in the sponsorship form, attaching the screenshot of the donation receipt (please attach the screenshot of the donation receipt that was emailed to you rather than the page you see after the donation). You can indicate whether you want to sponsor a particular student or we can allocate this spot ourselves to the students from the waiting list. You can also indicate whether you prefer us to prioritize students from developing countries when assigning place(s) that you sponsored.
If you are a university student and cannot afford the registration fee, you can also sign up for the waiting list here. (Note that you are not guaranteed to participate by signing up for the waiting list).
You can also find more information about this workshop series, a schedule of our future workshops as well as a list of our past workshops which you can get the recordings & materials here.
Looking forward to seeing you during the workshop!
Using LLMs with ellmer workshop by Hadley Wickham was first posted on May 13, 2025 at 3:06 pm.
Continue reading: Using LLMs with ellmer workshop by Hadley Wickham
Analysis: The Future of LLMs with ellmer Workshops
In the ever-evolving field of data science, continuous learning and keeping up-to-date with the latest technologies and methodologies are of utmost importance. A recent announcement on R-bloggers.com discussed a fast-approaching online workshop on ‘Using LLMs with ellmer’ which undoubtedly caught the attention of many data science enthusiasts.
Implications and Future Developments
Large Language Models (LLMs), as introduced in this workshop, are a critical component in the realm of AI, capable of understanding and generating human-like text. Notably, the ellmer package enables these advanced AI capabilities to be integrated into the R environment. Ensuring that data scientists are adept in such tools has long-term implications for the speed, efficiency, and novel applications in data science.
Hadley Wickham, the speaker for this session, is a distinguished data scientist and prolific contributor to R packages, making the promise of future workshops held by him or speakers of a similar calibre, highly beneficial for learners. It’s quite plausible that the increased demand for these workshops could lead them to become a regular occurrence, facilitating upskilling in the R community.
In the future, we might see an expansion of topics, covering more R packages and advanced AI techniques. Furthermore, the flexible approach today’s workshop adopted towards payment (acceptable in different currencies and also by sponsoring a student) combined with its charitable cause, paints an encouraging picture of an inclusive learning community that values diversity and social responsibility. This could lead to increased accessibility in the future, as more and more professionals and students benefit from these affordable (or sponsored) learning opportunities.
Actionable Advice
- Stay Informed: Regularly check R-bloggers and similar resources for updates about forthcoming workshops and apply promptly. Remember that registration confirmations are sent out a day before the workshop.
- Prepare Adequately: Ensuring that the necessary prerequisites are met before the workshop (such as having R installed and setting up the ellmer package) allows for a more effective learning experience.
- Be Charitable: If able, consider sponsoring a student. This not only supports the learning of individuals unable to afford the fee, but additionally contributes towards addressing social implications in areas such as Ukraine.
- Take Part: Even if one is not an R user, such workshops, often held by industry experts, offer valuable insights which could be applied to data science work in general.
By utilizing such actionable advice, not only can individuals further their personal knowledge and skills, but the broader R, data science, and AI communities can continue to grow and evolve positively.
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by jsendak | Apr 23, 2025 | DS Articles
[This article was first published on
R-posts.com, and kindly contributed to
R-bloggers]. (You can report issue about the content on this page
here)
Want to share your content on R-bloggers? click here if you have a blog, or here if you don’t.
Join our workshop on Shinyscholar – a template for producing reproducible analytic apps in R, which is a part of our workshops for Ukraine series!
Here’s some more info:
Title: Shinyscholar – a template for producing reproducible analytic apps in R
Date: Thursday, June 5th, 18:00 – 20:00 CEST (Rome, Berlin, Paris timezone)
Speaker: Simon Smart is a software developer in the Department of Population Health Sciences at the University of Leicester, UK. He has a background in plant and agricultural science and began developing Shiny apps in 2018, originally for forecasting yield in tomato and potato crops. He developed the shinyscholar package for creating reproducible apps and has applied it to create Disagapp for epidemiological modelling and refactor MetaInsight for evidence synthesis. He strives to create flexible, robust and reproducible apps using modern workflows that break down barriers for performing complex analyses.
Description: Shiny is an increasingly popular method for researchers to develop apps but they are typically not reproducible and a lack of training in software development results in substandard coding practices that make apps hard to maintain. The shinyscholar package addresses these problems by providing a template for producing apps that enable complex reproducible analyses, without having to learn best practices from scratch. In the workshop you will learn how to create a new application and the steps in developing shinyscholar modules, including prototyping, creating functions, checking for valid inputs, generating outputs, enabling reproducibility and automated testing.
Minimal registration fee: 20 euro (or 20 USD or 800 UAH)
Please note that the registration confirmation is sent 1 day before the workshop to all registered participants rather than immediately after registration
How can I register?
- Save your donation receipt (after the donation is processed, there is an option to enter your email address on the website to which the donation receipt is sent)
- Fill in the registration form, attaching a screenshot of a donation receipt (please attach the screenshot of the donation receipt that was emailed to you rather than the page you see after donation).
If you are not personally interested in attending, you can also contribute by sponsoring a participation of a student, who will then be able to participate for free. If you choose to sponsor a student, all proceeds will also go directly to organisations working in Ukraine. You can either sponsor a particular student or you can leave it up to us so that we can allocate the sponsored place to students who have signed up for the waiting list.
How can I sponsor a student?
- Save your donation receipt (after the donation is processed, there is an option to enter your email address on the website to which the donation receipt is sent)
- Fill in the sponsorship form, attaching the screenshot of the donation receipt (please attach the screenshot of the donation receipt that was emailed to you rather than the page you see after the donation). You can indicate whether you want to sponsor a particular student or we can allocate this spot ourselves to the students from the waiting list. You can also indicate whether you prefer us to prioritize students from developing countries when assigning place(s) that you sponsored.
If you are a university student and cannot afford the registration fee, you can also sign up for the waiting list here. (Note that you are not guaranteed to participate by signing up for the waiting list).
You can also find more information about this workshop series, a schedule of our future workshops as well as a list of our past workshops which you can get the recordings & materials here.
Looking forward to seeing you during the workshop!
Shinyscholar – a template for producing reproducible analytic apps in R workshop was first posted on April 22, 2025 at 4:36 pm.
Continue reading: Shinyscholar – a template for producing reproducible analytic apps in R workshop
Long-term Implications and Possible Future Developments
The increasing popularity of the coding language, R, and the shift toward data-driven decision making in various fields underscores the relevance of training programs such as the Shinyscholar workshop. Herein lies the long-term implications and possible future developments based on the workshop’s details explicitly outlined in the text above.
Shinyscholar, the focal point of the workshop, is a package for producing reproducible analytic apps in R. Its growing use indicates a significant long-term effect on how researchers, software developers, and data scientists appraise and process data, leaning more towards reproducible analyses.
Standardization of Practices
By teaching and promoting sophisticated coding practices, Shinyscholar aids the creation of clean and robust applications. This development may drive a long-term transition towards a more standardized and efficient data processing paradigm, mitigating the issues associated with poor code quality and hard-to-maintain apps.
Future Adoption
Lessons gleaned from the workshop such as prototyping, creating functions, checking for valid inputs, enabling reproducibility, and automated testing indicates a widespread future adoption of Shiny apps, particularly in research fields requiring substantial data analysis.
Increased Accessibility
The provision to sponsor a student and the low registration fee hints at a commitment to accessibility. With sufficient support and funding, these workshops can become more universal, providing valuable coding and data analysis skills to a broader audience.
Actionable Response
Given these insights, consider the following actionable advice:
- Get Involved: Attend the Shinyscholar workshop or similar training programs to acquire skills that would remain relevant in the long term. These skills offer potential opportunities in research, data science, and software development.
- Sponsor a Student: If personally attending these events is not an option, consider sponsoring a student’s participation. This act not only facilitates the spread of essential coding skills but also supports local charities.
- Advocate for Accessibility: Promote these events within your network or organization to raise awareness. If you are part of an institution, consider collaborating with these workshop organizers to sponsor a series of sessions for students or staff.
- Apply for Waiting Lists: If you are a student or financially constrained, sign up for waiting lists. These workshops might be tissue-tight but present a cost-effective way of learning crucial programming skills that will be sought after in the future.
In conclusion, the adoption and promotion of reproducible analytics apps in R, such as Shinyscholar, will undoubtedly have a profound impact on the way researchers and data scientists process and generate information. The increased accessibility and affordability of workshops like these indicate a promising shift towards widespread data literacy.
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by jsendak | Apr 23, 2025 | News
The State of Negotiations: Exploring the Underlying Themes and Proposing Innovative Solutions
Recently, the decision made by Secretary of State Marco Rubio to withdraw from an important meeting and the objection raised by Ukraine’s leader regarding a key U.S. proposal have sparked a series of questions about the current state of negotiations. In order to gain a deeper understanding of these events, it is crucial to explore the underlying themes and concepts that shape diplomatic discussions and propose innovative solutions to move forward.
1. Communication Breakdown and Misalignment
One of the key underlying themes in the mentioned events is the breakdown of communication and misalignment of priorities. The decision made by Secretary of State Marco Rubio to withdraw from the meeting indicates a lack of communication or a disagreement between parties. Similarly, the objection raised by Ukraine’s leader suggests a misalignment of priorities between the U.S. proposal and the interests of Ukraine.
To address this theme, it is crucial to establish open lines of communication and promote a shared understanding of goals and objectives. Regular and transparent dialogue between all parties involved can help prevent miscommunication and foster a collaborative environment.
2. Power Dynamics and Influence
Power dynamics and influence also play a significant role in diplomatic negotiations. The decision made by Secretary of State Marco Rubio to pull out of the meeting could be a strategic move to assert power or demonstrate dissatisfaction. On the other hand, Ukraine’s objection could be an attempt to assert its own interests and gain leverage in the negotiations.
To address this theme, it is important to promote a balanced power structure and ensure that all parties’ voices are heard and respected. Investing in building trust and promoting equality can help create an environment where negotiations are conducted on a level playing field, fostering more productive discussions.
3. Creative Problem-Solving and Innovative Solutions
Now, more than ever, it is crucial to embrace creative problem-solving and propose innovative solutions to move negotiations forward. The current impasse calls for out-of-the-box thinking and a departure from traditional approaches. By integrating diverse perspectives and exploring alternative pathways, it is possible to find common ground and reach mutually beneficial agreements.
One innovative solution could involve the establishment of a neutral mediation team comprising representatives from neutral countries or international organizations. This team could act as a facilitator, assisting parties in finding common ground and proposing compromise solutions. Such an approach promotes impartiality and reduces bias, contributing to a more favorable negotiation environment.
“In order to move forward, we must embrace creative problem-solving and propose innovative solutions.”
In conclusion, the recent events surrounding the decision by Secretary of State Marco Rubio to pull out of a meeting and the objection raised by Ukraine’s leader signal underlying themes of communication breakdown, power dynamics, and the need for creative problem-solving. By addressing these themes through open communication, promoting balanced power dynamics, and embracing innovative solutions, there is potential for progress in the negotiations. It is imperative for all parties involved to work towards a common goal of finding mutually beneficial solutions and fostering a productive negotiation environment.
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by jsendak | Apr 10, 2025 | News
Exploring the Impact of President Trump’s Trade War on Oil Prices and its Potential Consequences for the Russian Economy
The ongoing trade war between the United States and various countries, notably China, has sent ripples through the global economy. While the impacts of this war have been widely discussed, an interesting perspective emerges when we examine its potential effects on oil prices and how this might affect the Russian economy.
Oil has always played a significant role in world politics and has often been a key driver of economic growth for oil-exporting nations. One of these nations is Russia, which heavily relies on oil exports to sustain its economy. Therefore, any fluctuations in oil prices, whether caused by geopolitical tensions or external factors, can have profound implications for Russia’s economic stability.
President Trump’s trade war has led to a slowdown in global trade and has strained relationships with some of the world’s major economies. As a result, it has contributed to a decrease in oil demand, which has driven down prices. This downward pressure on oil prices has overshadowed the impact of the penalties imposed by the United States and its allies on Russia.
Historically, Russia has been subject to economic sanctions due to its geopolitical actions, including annexing Crimea and supporting separatist movements in Ukraine. These penalties have targeted Russian industries, restricting access to international markets and technology, stifling economic growth, and negatively impacting its currency.
However, the trade war-induced decrease in oil prices might have a more significant and immediate impact on Russia’s economy than these penalties. The decline in prices reduces the revenue generated from oil exports, placing pressure on the Russian government to find alternative sources of income to sustain its budget.
One solution to mitigate the potential damage is for Russia to diversify its economy and reduce its dependence on oil exports. The government can invest in sectors such as technology, renewable energy, and manufacturing to build a more balanced and resilient economy. This shift can stimulate innovation, create new job opportunities, and reduce vulnerability to fluctuations in oil prices.
Additionally, Russia can expand its trading partnerships with countries outside the scope of the trade war, seeking new markets for its exports and fostering economic growth. By diversifying its customer base, Russia can minimize its reliance on specific regions or countries affected by the trade war and reduce its vulnerability to price swings caused by geopolitical tensions.
Furthermore, Russia can foster stronger relations with oil-importing countries that are not major players in the trade war. By forming alliances and partnerships with these nations, Russia can secure stable and reliable markets for its oil exports, ensuring a steady stream of income even in times of global economic uncertainty.
In conclusion,
the trade war instigated by President Trump has caused a decline in oil prices, which could prove more detrimental to the Russian economy than the penalties associated with geopolitical conflicts. To weather this storm, Russia must diversify its economy, tap into new markets, and strengthen ties with non-trade war participants. By doing so, Russia can minimize the impact of falling oil prices and foster sustainable economic growth.
- Focus on diversification: Invest in technology, renewable energy, and manufacturing to build a more balanced economy.
- Expand trading partnerships: Find new markets for exports outside the scope of the trade war.
- Form alliances with oil-importing countries unaffected by the trade war to ensure stable markets.
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by jsendak | Mar 15, 2025 | Art
In recent years, there has been a growing interest in exploring the artistic and cultural perspectives of Eastern Europe. The exhibition European Kinship—Eastern European Perspective, currently displayed at the Capa Center in Budapest, offers a unique opportunity to delve into the complex history, cultural identity, and collective memory of this region. Through the lens of Eastern European photographers, the exhibition aims to shed light on the shared heritage and interconnectedness of countries such as Poland, Hungary, Romania, and Ukraine.
The concept of kinship, both literal and metaphorical, serves as the overarching theme of the exhibition. It examines how historical events, political transformations, and social dynamics have shaped the region’s artistic landscape and fostered a sense of shared experience among Eastern European nations. Kinship is not merely limited to familial relations, but rather extends to the notion of a collective identity and shared struggles.
To understand the significance of this exhibition, it is essential to recognize the historical backdrop against which these Eastern European perspectives have emerged. The fall of the Iron Curtain in 1989 marked a crucial turning point for the region, as countries in Eastern Europe witnessed significant political, social, and economic transformations. The exhibition examines how these changes have influenced artistic production and expression, providing a fresh and insightful view into Eastern European culture in the post-Soviet era.
Moreover, in today’s interconnected world, the notion of kinship has taken on new dimensions. Globalization, migration, and the rise of nationalist sentiments have stirred debates about the meaning of European identity and the role of Eastern European countries within the European Union. This exhibition serves as a timely reminder of the interconnectedness of Europe as a whole and the need to foster a sense of kinship and understanding among its diverse nations.
By featuring the works of artists like Lia Dostlieva, the exhibition also explores the contemporary realities and challenges faced by Eastern European societies. Through her lens, Dostlieva captures the complexities of cultural heritage, memory, and the ongoing search for identity in a rapidly changing world. Her work, along with that of other photographers, offers a powerful and thought-provoking look into the lived experiences of individuals and communities in Eastern Europe.
In addition to the exhibition, the accompanying events during the Professional Weekend—March 27–29, 2025—such as the conference and Budapest Portfolio Reviews, provide a platform for dialogue, networking, and further exploration of the themes presented in European Kinship—Eastern European Perspective. These events bring together photographers, curators, scholars, and art enthusiasts, fostering a space for collaboration and exchange of ideas.
European Kinship—Eastern European Perspective at the Capa Center in Budapest offers an opportunity to delve into the rich and diverse cultural heritage of Eastern Europe. Through the power of photography and storytelling, the exhibition invites visitors to reflect on the past, explore the present, and contemplate the future of this vibrant region. It is a reminder that, despite the historical and contemporary challenges faced by Eastern European countries, the bonds of kinship and solidarity endure.
Professional Weekend—March 27–29, 2025—includes a conference, an exhibition by Lia Dostlieva, and Budapest Portfolio Reviews. These events accompany the exhibition European Kinship—Eastern European Perspective at Capa Center in Budapest
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