For many people designing an effective visualization and then implementing it with the tool of their choice is too much to take on at once. I think this is why many researchers recycle approaches that they see in the literature or that their mentors insist they use. Of course, this perpetuates problematic design practices. What if you could break out of these practices? What if you could tell your mentors, colleagues, reviewers, and anyone else what the strengths and weaknesses are of what you are trying to do versus what they are advising you to do?
I have spent a lot of time creating my own plots, critiquing those of others, and reading the ideas of leaders in the field of data visualization. As you know, I've shared many of these ideas in this newsletter and in my YouTube videos. I'm excited to work with you more directly. On January 9th (1-4 PM Eastern), I will be offering a 3-hour Zoom workshop introducing you to the principles that drive effective data visualizations in science. There will be no coding in this workshop. Aside from Zoom to watch along, all you'll need is some paper and a pen - if you have different colored pens you'll be in even better shape.
What will I talk about? I'll tell you the importance of aligning your audience and the format with your data visualization. I'll give you fancy language like pre-attentive attributes to help you talk with your colleagues about your visualizations. You'll be (re)introduced to the grammar of graphics framework, which will enable you to dissect any data visualization. Finally, I'll describe strategies to align the form and function of your visualizations.
Data visualization is hard! This interactive workshop will give you greater confidence to design your own visualizations that effectively convey your science to your audience. I'll lead you through the material by sharing numerous examples from the popular media and scientific literature. You're also encouraged to bring your favorite visualization to share with other participants and any visualizations you are already working on.