41193 IS Data Visualisation Studio
6cp; 3hpw; 1hpw (lecture), 2hpw (studio)Requisite(s): 41192 IS Value Creation Studio OR 31250 Introduction to Data Analytics
Undergraduate
Description
Taking the Information Systems (IS) perspective (rather than the more common Data Science or IT perspectives), this subject focuses on the latest developments and professional practices in data visualisation and visual analytics for non-technical decision-makers. Recognising the importance of data visualisation literacy in various disciplines including IS, the subject differs from other more common data visualisation subjects by emphasising (i) learning the whys behind doing data visualisation in addition to the how to dos, (ii) identifying business/organisational cases and their requirements, the stakeholders, and their problem space and decision-making needs, (iii) visual ethics and responsible use of visual data, and (iv) utilising commercial data visualisation software instead of elaborate coding.
In short, the subject treats visualisation as a “verb” rather than a “noun” and aims for visual problem exploration “through data” rather than creation of static visual outputs. To this end, the subject is taught through a combination of lectures and studios with a focus on design thinking exercises and ethical visual analytics. Students develop the necessary skills and the mindset for problem finding and solving through visual data exploration that goes beyond creation of static visual outputs. These skills include identification of different stakeholders and analysis of their decision-making needs and environments, problem formulation, finding and ethical harvesting of relevant data, data quality, data integration, multidimensional modelling, and development of a data exploration prototype using a commercial data visualisation software. Focusing on value creation and decision-making needs of different stakeholders, students also learn how to use data-driven visual storytelling and other contemporary techniques to explore the problem space, inform, influence and inspire different types of stakeholders (including business and IT).
Typical availability
Autumn session, City campus
Spring session, City campus
Detailed subject description.