ART 3455 - Data Visualization and Design

Goals: In this class, students will study the fundamental principles of data visualization; learn multiple techniques for creating visualizations; and explore the ethical considerations behind this practice, where visual choices can strongly influence a viewer’s understanding and interpretation of the underlying data and its significance. This course will prepare students to think critically and holistically when interpreting data and presenting such interpretations visually.

Content: Students will gain familiarity with various types and methods of visualization (e.g. charts, graphs, tables, diagrams, mapping, symbolic representations), studied in their historical contexts as well as in contemporary use. Using open source data sets as well as personal and observational data, students will then explore questions of data variables and relationships, and learn multiple techniques for creating their own data visualizations using various software platforms. Students will analyze skewed examples to understand this field’s potential for manipulation and how to identify implicit and explicit biases in data visualizations.

Taught: Alternate years

Prerequisite: ART 1350 or ART 1450, with grade of C- or higher

Credits: 2