Data visualization (DataVis) is a rich research area that focuses on the design and use of visual representations and interaction techniques to help people understand, explore, and analyze data. While fields such as scientific visualization involve the presentation of data that has some physical or geometric correspondence, data visualization focuses on abstract data without such correspondences such as symbolic, tabular, networked, hierarchical, or textual information sources.
The objectives of this course are:
- Learn fundamental principles of effective data visualization.
- Understand the wide variety of data visualization techniques and know what visualizations are appropriate for various types of data and for different goals.
- Understand how to design and implement data visualizations using commercial and open-source software tools.
- Know how data visualization uses dynamic interaction methods to help users explore, analyze, and make sense of data.
- Gain an understanding of human perceptual and cognitive capabilities to the design of effective data visualizations.
- Develop skills in critiquing different data visualization techniques in the context of user goals and objectives.
The course will follow a lecture/seminar style with discussions, guest speakers from industry and academia, viewing of best-practice videos, and hands-on experience with InfoVis design and development. Download the syllabus here, or view it online here.