Introduction to Data Visualization

COMS w4995.003 (3 pts)

Instructor: Christian Swinehart (cds2205; office hours by appt.)
IAs: Emily Xia (ex2135; Tue 3–5pm) & Nipun Agarwal (nna2132; Wed 12–2pm)
Class Time: Thurs. 4:10–6:40pm
Room: 829 Mudd
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Overview

This course is a hands-on introduction to design principles, theory, and software techniques for visualizing data. Classes will be a combination of lecture, design studio, and lab. Through readings, design critique, and code assignments, students will learn how visual representations can help in the understanding of complex data, and how to design and evaluate visualizations for the purpose of analysis or communication. Students will develop skills in processing data and building interactive visualizations using D3. Topics include visual perception, exploratory data analysis, task analysis, graphic design, visual hierarchy, narrative, etc.

Students should have experience in JavaScript programming and web development, as well as familiarity with databases and data formats. You should be comfortable picking up new programming tools on your own. Experience with Python or R for data processing is helpful but not required.

Schedule

  Topic Reading Due In Class Assigned, Individual Assigned,
Group		 Due Wed. Before Class
1/23

Introduction: why visualize? schedule and expectations.
      1/30

      Design: form vs. function, generating ideas, iterating, and critique.
        2/6

        Data Models: data types, task types, corresponding visualization formats.
        2/13

        Data Exploration: EDA, data wrangling, and Tableau.
            2/20

            Visual Encoding: marks, channels, expressiveness & effectiveness.
            2/27

            Interaction: overview vs. details, small multiples, brushing, etc.
              3/6

              Evaluation, Perception, Review: a framework for analysis; how we see, color, and attention theory.
              • Study for midterm
                  3/13

                  Midterm Exam
                      3/20

                      Spring Break, no class.
                            3/27

                            Animation: motion perception, transitions, pros/cons.
                              4/3

                              Maps & Narrative: projections; typography, rhythm; why storytelling, techniques.
                                4/10

                                Final Project In-progress Critique
                                    4/17

                                    Final Project Workshop: Group-by-group meetings and in-class working session
                                          4/24

                                          Final Critique
                                              5/1

                                              Final Project Showcase: 4–6pm
                                                  5/12 MON

                                                      Past semesters