Module 2: How to Critically Analyze and Interpret Data Visualizations
Introduction
As we learned in the first module, data visualizations are an effective way to present information because they allow us to discover insights relatively quickly and easily–at least compared to sifting through the original data ourselves.
But are data visualizations always easy to understand? Can they always be interpreted quickly?
Not necessarily. Some data visualizations will require more time to analyze and understand, either because they are complex or confusing or just not what we were expecting.
In this module, we will discuss strategies and tools for critically assessing data visualizations and will identify features of data visualizations that can be confusing or manipulative.
Learning Objectives
By the end of this module, you should be able to:
- Analyze and break down a data visualization.
- Identify misleading features in a data visualization.
- Evaluate a data visualization using data literacy strategies.