Information Visualisation (GEOM90007)

Information visualisation is about using and designing effective mechanisms for presenting and exploring the patterns embedded in large and complex data sets, and to support decision making. Information Visualisation is important in a range of domains dealing with voluminous data rich in structure, among them, prominently, data in the spatial domain or data referenced to the spatial domain. Through its focus on presentation and interaction with spatial information, this subject complements related subjects that deal with the storage and querying of data (such as GEOM90008 Spatial Data Management), and the processing of data (such as GEOM90006 Spatial Data Analytics). This subject is vital for anyone wishing to work with large datasets. It will also be of relevance to those with an interest in design, especially graphical and interaction design.

The subject will cover: Fundamentals of information visualisation and data graphics; visual thinking, human sensing and perception; foundations of data graphics and cartography; graphical user interface design; human computer interaction and human centred design. The lectures are also supported with several labs to develop student experience in this domain.

In the labs, some tools such as Tableau and R libraries will be used to create a wide range of spatial and non-spatial visualisations in order to present data and discover patterns. These tools will also be used to create interactivity on visualisations. In addition, different visualisation types will be discussed and critiqued for different purposes. These will empower you to visualise various data sets in an appropriate form based on identified communication needs.

Intended learning outcomes

On completion of this subject the student will be able to: 

• ILO 1. Apply the cognitive and technical principles of information visualisation across various domains
• ILO 2. Critically evaluate the designs of data graphics, maps, and user interfaces for spatial and non-spatial information visualisation;
• ILO 3. Develop various types of visualisation platforms in order to analyse big data sets

Generic skills