Document Type
Thesis
Degree
Master of Science
Major
Computer Science
Date of Defense
5-8-2023
Graduate Advisor
Badri Adhikari
Committee
Mark Hauschild
Abderrahmen Mtibaa
Abstract
Background. Developing easily decodable and insightful visuals is a challenge in the field of data visualization. This challenge becomes more pronounced when the data is of a complex nature. Good visualizations clearly convey their data using designs with appropriate encoding, visual attributes (i.e., color, shape, size, etc.), and accessibility features (e.g., distinctive colors for color-blind individu- als). One area where well-designed visualizations can make a significant impact is elucidating the learning process. Users ranging from self-taught individuals to students enrolled in coursework could use such visuals to detect problematic areas in their process of learning skills such as writing and coding and work proactively to address them. High school teachers and advanced university professors could also use these visuals to better structure their lesson plans and provide pointed feedback to students.
Problem. We recently introduced a series of interactive data visuals using Plotly.js, a JavaScript visualization library, for exploring one’s own writing and coding process. However, methods for evaluating whether these visuals are suffi- ciently insightful and well-designed for their purpose is an open issue in the field.
Results. In this work, we investigate a set of criteria, distilled from expert opin- ions in the field, for evaluating the effectiveness of a data visualization. As a case study, we determine whether our visuals meet these criteria and then highlight the strengths and weaknesses of our visuals, as well as technical limitations. Fi- nally, based on the best practices for interactive data visualization, we suggest techniques for improving their accessibility and effectiveness.
Impact. Our suggested visualization improvements would benefit both learners and educators in structuring education to be more process-focused rather than results-focused.
Recommended Citation
Flores, Shaney, "Accessible and Functional Visualizations for Exploring and Analyzing the Writing and Programming Process" (2023). Theses. 459.
https://irl.umsl.edu/thesis/459