Data Visualization for Public Health

Workshop agenda

• Welcome and expectation setting

  Quick introductions and expectation setting for the two hour workshop

• Data visualization fundamentals

  Learn to speak the language of data, and the science behind why we love charts. We'll cover preattentive attributes, Gestalt principles, and chart types suited to common public health data stories.

• Activity: A / B Chart Testing

  We'll review pairs of charts designed to communicate a specific data story, voting on which one we think better suits the use case and discussing why.

• Chart Formatting: Three ways to improve every chart you make

  Learn a three step framework for improving every chart you create, with before and after examples that highlight how customizing away from the design defaults creates more effective graphics.

• Break

  Program pause for a biobreak, since two hours can feel like a long time in front of the computer.

• Demo: Redesigning charts in Excel

  Excel is one of the most common data visualization programs used in public health. We'll demo through how to apply the three part framework for effective chart formatting in practice.

• Activity: Chart Design Critique

  Back on Mural, you'll identify at least three changes to make to improve how a chart is formatted, using pairs of black and white charts and key headlines.

• Q&A

  We'll wrap up with your questions, including capturing requests for additional resources to be shared through the course portal.

• Workshop ends

  Wrap up and farewell!

• Bonus: AMA with Amanda

  Stick around for 30 minutes of bonus time with the instructor, including the option to submit questions in advance.