Information Visualization

Faculty

Faculty of Engineering and Computer Science

Version

Version 1 of 02.10.2024.

Module identifier

11B0580

Module level

Bachelor

Language of instruction

German, English

ECTS credit points and grading

5.0

Module frequency

only summerterm

Duration

1 semester

 

 

Brief description

The precise translation of complex data into visual artifacts is considerd one of the essential skills of a visual designer. This Information Visualization course provides theoretical, as practical knowledge about technology, psychology, ethical standards and design strategies for the successful visualization of complex information.

Teaching and learning outcomes

  • psychological and physiological features of visual perception
  • statistical basics of Information Visualization
  • History and development of Information Visualization
  • practical consolidation of analysing, design and development skills
  • practical consolidation of iterative design process skills
  • ethical behavior in information visualization

Overall workload

The total workload for the module is 150 hours (see also "ECTS credit points and grading").

Teaching and learning methods
Lecturer based learning
Hours of workloadType of teachingMedia implementationConcretization
15SeminarPresence or online-
15PracticePresence or online-
30Laboratory activityPresence or online-
Lecturer independent learning
Hours of workloadType of teachingMedia implementationConcretization
30Preparation/follow-up for course work-
40Creation of examinations-
20Reception of other media or sources-
Graded examination
  • Project Report, medial
Ungraded exam
  • Field work / Experimental work
Remark on the assessment methods

The ungraded examination performance in the module is understood as the basis of the graded examination performance. The result is described in the project report and presented in a presentation. 

Exam duration and scope

Graded examination performance

  • Project report (medial): approx. 15 pages, illustrative, photographic, filmic representations

Ungraded examination performance

  • Experimental work: approx. 3-month design work from the context of the course.

Recommended prior knowledge

Basic knowledge in Computer Science and Design

Knowledge Broadening

Students are able to structure complex data sets and translate these into static as well as dynamic visualization of added cognitive and aesthetic value.

Knowledge deepening

Students have basic statistical knowledge that they are able to practically apply in developing complex data visualizations.

Knowledge Understanding

Students can evaluate the significance and integrity of complex visualisations. 

Application and Transfer

Participants can create formally correct static and dynamic visualizations using various information technologies.

Academic Innovation

Students can design innovative visualisations that are suitable for communicating data and information in a target group-oriented way.

Communication and Cooperation

Participants are able to articulate, visualize, and implement ideas, concepts and project results.

Academic Self-Conception / Professionalism

Students are aware of the potential for manipulation inherent to the visualization of information . They realize the distinct responsibility of the designer by constant self-reflection and evaluation of the individual creative action.

Literature

Sandra Rendgen & Julius Wiedemann: Information Graphics, Taschen, 2012

Edward R Tufte: Visual Display of Quantitative Information, Graphics Press, 2001

David McCandless: The Visual Miscellaneum, Harper Design, 2009

Jaques Bertin: Semiology of Graphics: Diagrams, Networks, Maps, Esri Press, 2011

Manuel Lima: Visual Complexity: Mapping Patterns of Information, Princeton Architectural Press, 2008

Ben Fry: Visualizing Data, O'Reilly Media, 2008

Linkage to other modules

The module offers students the opportunity to specialize and, in particular, prepares them for further individual in-depth study and profile formation in the modules Self Inspired Project and Design Project in Context. 

Applicability in study programs

  • Media & Interaction Design
    • Media & Interaction Design B.A. (01.09.2024)

    Person responsible for the module
    • Nehls, Johannes
    Teachers
    • Nehls, Johannes
    Further lecturer(s)

    Lehrbeauftragte