April 29, 2014
11 a.m. Pacific
Description: Assessment has become a ubiquitous activity in all areas of librarianship, and a key component of assessment projects is effectively communicating data and outcomes to library administrators and stakeholders. However, many practicing librarians have had little to no formal training in data analysis and presentation. This live, interactive webcast focuses on data visualization strategies and best practices that will ensure clear and accurate communication of quantitative assessment results. The targeted audience includes library professionals who would like to maximize their effectiveness in presenting their assessment findings to library and institutional administrators and stakeholders.
The presentation will provide an introductory overview of quantitative data visualization and will highlight selected best practices. Topics will include a summary of available visualization tools, tips on successfully leveraging color, and a few points relating to visual perception. Participants will be introduced to some of the key principles of graphical integrity and design promoted by major thinkers in the field, such as Edward Tufte and Stephen Few. A section of the presentation will be devoted display methods. Most of this discussion will focus on charts and graphs, but it will also cover when using a table is more advantageous. The scope of the chart discussion will include a description of the major chart types (bar, line, pie, scatter, etc.), their appropriate uses, and some areas where chart designers should remain vigilant lest they distort or obscure the data. The audience will be engaged through the interactive polling and chat features. For example, direct requests for audience feedback are planned for some of the points relating to perception, comparing chart types, and clean design practices.
http://www.ala.org/acrl/datavisualization
Registration fees:
ACRL member: $50
ALA member: $75
Nonmember: $90
Student: $40
Group*: $295
