Activity Worksheets for Teaching and Learning Data Visualization

Abstract

In this work, the data visualization activity (DVA) worksheet method for teaching and learning data visualization is presented. The DVA worksheet method consists of a series of activity worksheets developed to guide novice instructors and students through the data visualization process. The activity worksheets help new faculty and visualization instructors, lacking formal training in pedagogy and data visualization, learn the data visualization process, design course work, and develop curriculum. The worksheets can be used for individual activities, or as a collection of activities to support data visualization capacity building. Each worksheet focuses on an individual step in the process, allowing the worksheets to be tailored to discipline-specific data visualization needs. We share the motivation and evolution of the worksheets from paper-based to the semi-automated process utilized in fall 2020. We conclude this work with a discussion and areas for improvement.