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Foundations of Data Visualization

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Foundations of Data Visualization

This course is part of Data Visualization Specialization

Instructor: Jesus Caban

1,908 already enrolled

Included with

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5 modules

Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals.

Intermediate level

Recommended experience

2 weeks to complete

at 10 hours a week

Flexible schedule

Learn at your own pace

5 modules

Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals.

Intermediate level

Recommended experience

2 weeks to complete

at 10 hours a week

Flexible schedule

Learn at your own pace

What you'll learn

Understand core data visualization concepts, its history, and how it enhances data comprehension for decision-making and storytelling.
Learn to select the appropriate chart types for different data sets, considering data types and visualization techniques.
Explore human visual perception, how it affects data interpretation, and how to use perceptual principles for better visualizations.
Gain knowledge of key design principles, focusing on clarity, simplicity, and aesthetics to create impactful and easy-to-understand visualizations.

Skills you'll gain

Details to know

Shareable certificate

Add to your LinkedIn profile

Assessments

12 assignments

Taught in English

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Build your subject-matter expertise

This course is part of the Data Visualization Specialization

When you enroll in this course, you'll also be enrolled in this Specialization.

Learn new concepts from industry experts
Gain a foundational understanding of a subject or tool
Develop job-relevant skills with hands-on projects
Earn a shareable career certificate

There are 5 modules in this course

In the course "Foundations of Data Visualization", you will build a solid foundation in data visualization, learning how to effectively transform raw data into meaningful insights. The course covers fundamental concepts, including basic data types, human visual perception, and essential design principles that influence how we interpret and understand visual information. You will also explore various visualization techniques suitable for different data types, from bar charts to scatter plots, and learn how to select the best approach for specific data sets. The course emphasizes how human visual perception impacts how we process and interpret data, helping you create visuals that resonate with your audience.

Module details

This course introduces fundamental concepts of data visualization, focusing on understanding how data can be effectively visualized for insight generation. The modules cover basic techniques, human visual perception, and essential design principles, setting a strong foundation in visualization for those new to the field or wanting to enhance their design skills.

What's included

2 readings

In this introductory module, learners will explore the foundational aspects of data visualization, gaining insights into the key topics covered throughout the course. Learners will also become familiar with the grading criteria and structure, setting clear expectations for learning journey. This module provides an overview of high-level concepts in data visualization, tracing its history, evolution, and purpose in enhancing data understanding and decision-making. By the end, learners will have a solid understanding of what lies ahead and how data visualization can transform complex information into actionable insights.

What's included

5 videos2 readings3 assignments

5 videosTotal 62 minutes

Module Introduction2 minutes
Introduction to Data Visualization20 minutes
History of Data Visualization15 minutes
Data Visualization Lies8 minutes
Introduction to EN.605.662 - Syllabus17 minutes

2 readingsTotal 220 minutes

Reading References110 minutes
Reading References110 minutes

3 assignmentsTotal 90 minutes

Foundations of Data Visualization15 minutes
Pitfalls and Practicalities in Data Visualization15 minutes
Introduction to Data Visualization60 minutes

In this module, learners will delve into foundational visualization techniques and learn to differentiate key data types, including nominal and ordinal data. Learners will be able to explore a range of basic visualization methods, examine their strengths and limitations, and gain insight into how these techniques can be adapted to represent multiple variables effectively. By the end of this module, learners will be equipped to select and apply suitable visualization techniques based on data type and analysis needs.

What's included

4 videos3 readings3 assignments

4 videosTotal 46 minutes

Module Introduction2 minutes
Introduction to Visualization Techniques13 minutes
Basic Visualization Techniques - Part I18 minutes
Basic Visualization Techniques - Part II13 minutes

3 readingsTotal 240 minutes

Reading References100 minutes
Reading References100 minutes
Self-Reflective Reading: Understanding Effective Data Visualizations40 minutes

3 assignmentsTotal 90 minutes

Overview of Basic Visualization Techniques15 minutes
Expanding Visualization Techniques15 minutes
Basic Data Type and Visualization Techniques60 minutes

This module explores how human visual perception shapes our understanding of visual data, focusing on the workings of the visual system and how we interpret visual information. Learners will learn the distinctions between pre-attentive and attentive processing, which play crucial roles in how we notice and interpret data. Additionally, they’ll examine various encoding techniques within visualizations to enhance data comprehension and engagement. By the end of this module, learners will understand how to leverage perceptual principles to create effective and intuitive data visualizations.

What's included

4 videos4 readings3 assignments

4 videosTotal 38 minutes

Module Introduction2 minutes
Human Visual Perception6 minutes
Visual Variables18 minutes
Principle of Grouping13 minutes

4 readingsTotal 180 minutes

Reading References40 minutes
Reading References40 minutes
Self-Reflective Reading: Fostering Collaboration and Overcoming Imposter Syndrome40 minutes
Self-Reflective Reading: The Visualization Design Process60 minutes

3 assignmentsTotal 90 minutes

Understanding Human Visual Perception15 minutes
Visual Variables and Grouping Principles15 minutes
Human Visual Perception 60 minutes

This module equips learners with key principles for creating clear and impactful data visualizations. Learners will explore the data-to-ink concept, principles of graphical excellence, and the re-design process to enhance existing visuals. Through practical exercises and case studies, learners will master the art of crafting compelling visual narratives that effectively communicate insights and support decision-making.