Data Visual Design & Storytelling

12 hours of instruction

This course teaches participants the fundamentals of data visualization, which they can use to support data- driven decision-making when exploring and presenting quantitative information. By the end of this course, participants will be able to recognize misleading or inaccurate charts and graphs, understand the design principles involved in creating compelling and accurate visualizations, and craft a narrative that accurately supports the data, provides context, and reveals actionable insights.

OBJECTIVES

1. Identify the components and uses of common charts and graphs
2. Understand the design principles involved in creating compelling and accurate visualizations
3. Recognize misleading or inaccurate charts and graphs
4. Create data narratives tailored to an audience’s communicative needs

PREREQUISITES

No background in math or data analysis is required, but we recommend that students have some familiarity with Excel.

SYLLABUS & TOPICS COVERED

1. Defining data storytelling
   • Exploring vs. explaining data through visualizations
   • Identifying the type of data to be visualized
   • Introducing the process and structure of data storytelling
   • Recognizing standard chart components
2. Visualizations for exploration
   • Identifying common charts and graphs
   • Applying principles of visual design theory
   • Framing an actionable insight
   • Engaging an audience
3. Visualizations for explanation
   • Revising visualizations
   • Evaluating revisions
   • Structuring an outline
   • Developing a storyboard
4. Delivering data stories
   • Selecting visualization tools
   • Determining the optimal format
   • Recognizing opportunities for error
   • Correcting visual distortions

SOFTWARE REQUIREMENTS

Ability to open PDF documents