• Unit 1: Introduction to Data Visualization

    A data analyst understands both the statistical and psychological sides of data. In addition to knowing how to interpret data and create charts, a data analyst must also consider how their intended audience will perceive their work. This unit will introduce you to data visualization and the psychology of visual perception.

    Completing this unit should take you approximately 2 hours.

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

      • distinguish between terms used in data science;
      • discuss the significance of data visualization;
      • explain how the brain processes visual stimuli; and
      • identify principles of design.

    • 1.1: Introduction to Data Visualization Design

      • The Beauty of Data Visualization Page

        This video introduces the concepts you will learn in this course. Pay attention to the examples of data presentation in the video. What types of data are presented? How can we present data in a way that brings clarity to the audience? How can we solve information problems? As you watch the video, answer these questions and take notes.

      • Designing Figures Page

        This lecture discusses how color, size, and whitespace can increase the amount of information captured in a single graphic and how the deliberate use of design principles can reduce the "time to insight": the time it takes the audience to unpack and understand information. As you watch the video, be sure to take note of these principles.

    • 1.2: Visual Perception

      • Introduction to Data Visualization Page

        For a data visualization to be considered useful, it must be understood when presented. Watch this summary of how visual variable properties can guide the creation and presentation of data visualization.

      • Data Visualization Page

        This video will further explain how your audience perceives and understands the visual information you display. Note how the speaker uses the visualization principles discussed to create the figures used in the presentation. The speaker also shares tips for thinking systematically when constructing data visualizations. Be sure to take notes as you watch this presentation.

    • Unit 1 Assessment

      • Unit 1 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.