Data Visualization

A much needed skill in business is data representation and interpretation so strategic and actionable decisions can be made while improving communication skills (Rajamanickam, 2005). In engaging their creativity to present data student's engagement with the course heightens and they start on the road to active learning and higher order thinking as they move to active learning (Vanderbilt).

VennGage is an infographic builder tool that provides the user with various templates to create their own "data story" so instead of numbers visuals are presented. Learners will be given either a data set or a data topic for which they must present it visually (ie. Resume, Social Media post, current topic statistics); they must then using Venngage create a visual representation of this data that others can understand. This will assess their higher order thinking in breaking down data and presenting it in an accurate and visually appealing manner. Venngage utilizes the Triple E technology integration framework.

Tableau is a data visualization platform that turns data into graphs and pictures. It is widely used in business today and I consider it an essential skill for students to know how to use this software. Learners will be given a data set for which they must find the most appealing and accurate data visual and provide meaning and interpretation of this data in terms of actions to take. This assignment engages the students in critical higher order thinking and data interpretation. Tableau uses the TPACK technology integration framework at all levels.