• Unit 4: Telling the Story

    Data are often visualized through collections of organized charts and graphs that relate to a common theme. A problem should be clearly defined, and each chart in a dashboard or slideshow should be immediately relevant in answering that problem. This unit discusses using data and charts to "tell a story" that informs or persuades an audience.

    Completing this unit should take you approximately 1 hour.

    • Upon successful completion of this unit, you will be able to:

      • design a chart to solve an applied problem;
      • organize charts into a presentation; and
      • evaluate when visualizations are needed to explain a concept.

    • 4.1: Data Visualization Design

      • Defining Variables Page

        All statistical analyses are guided by a research question. Properly defining all variables and clearly stating a problem are the first steps in the data presentation process. This article discusses how to define variables operationally.

      • Design Principles Page

        A visualization must be easily understandable by everyone who sees it. This article demonstrates some ways to ensure that charts are understandable and engaging.

      • Cautionary Examples of Infographics Page

        Review these "dos and don'ts" of presenting data in infographics. Pay attention to the amount of information, images, colors, and charts you should use. Take notes and become familiar with how to conduct a squint test before finalizing your presentation.

    • 4.2: Data Presentation

      • When and How to Visualize Page

        Read this article on using figures and tables to simplify or break down complicated information in a way that is accessible and understandable to your audience. Take notes on each section and pay attention to the type of figure/chart used, what it requires, why it is used, when it is best used, and what to avoid when using it. Think of a data set where you can apply each type of figure/table to present.

      • Presentation Tips Page

        Read the article and take notes on preparing a powerful slide deck. Use a presentation you prepared or located on a topic of interest to make this activity more engaging. Follow the ten tips and adjust the slides, then rename the presentation and save it as the new version. Once you are done, compare the two versions and reflect on the improvements.

    • Unit 4 Assessment

      • Unit 4 Assessment Quiz
        Receive a grade

        Take this assessment to see how well you understood this unit.

        • This assessment does not count towards your grade. It is just for practice!
        • You will see the correct answers when you submit your answers. Use this to help you study for the final exam!
        • You can take this assessment as many times as you want, whenever you want.