Homework 1: Inspirational Visualization Images
We are surrounded by examples of visualization in every form of
media in our everyday lives. An effective visualization will quickly
and accurately convey important information in a compact manner that
is easy to understand, interpret, and analyze. In contrast, a poor
quality visualization can be confusing, hard to interpret, or even
misleading.
Why are you interested in taking this course, "Interactive
Visualization"? What visualizations are particularly inspiring to
you? Find two example visualization images -- one example that you
think is a great visualization and one example that you think needs
significant revision to be effective. Please limit yourself to single
static (non-interactive) image visualizations for this assignment.
For each of your two examples:
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Document the author of the visualization (formal & detailed
bibliographic citation). Note: Just because you found it on social
media doesn't mean you can be lazy or sloppy with giving credit to the
original author / visualization creator!
There are different standards for bibliographic citation depending on
the field of study and the publication. It's good to familiarize
yourself with different standards (you likely will be asked to follow
different standards in your future career). You are not required to use a
specific format for this course, but be consistent within an assignment.
Some relevant examples:
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A short paragraph describing the context, original media format,
target audience, and purpose of the visualization.
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A longer paragraph with your analysis of the strengths and weaknesses
of the visualization. What generalizations can you draw from this
example about what makes a compelling, high-quality visualization?
How specifically could this visualization be improved?
Your assignment should be formatted as a .pdf with embedded images.
You can use Latex or Microsoft Word or Google Docs or another document
preparation tool, but make sure you export the file to .pdf before
uploading the file to Submitty.
Make sure your writeup is thoughtful, clear, and well-written
(complete sentences, proofread/spellchecked). Remember that part of
your grade for this assignment and for this course is your
communication and writing.
How to Submit
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Upload your .pdf file to Submitty Gradeable for Homework 1.
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Make a post on the Submitty Discussion Forum sharing one of your two
visualization images (the already great one or the one that needs
improvement). Include a very brief description of what you like about
the visualization and/or what needs improvement.
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NOTE: We will be using Submitty peer grading feature for feedback
in addition to TA and instructor grading on homework assignments.
Send email to the instructor ASAP if you cannot access Submitty.