Data Visualisation for Scientists with Angela Morelli and Tom Gabriel Johansen

How can we visualise science in clear, powerful and engaging ways to meet the needs of our audiences? How can we foster an inclusive design process to ensure authentic participation? How can we deconstruct complexity and transform data into effective tools for decision making? How can we unlock the power of data visualisation on a systemic level in scientific organisations to expand their work's impact and reach?

The course is a hands-on experience aimed at scientists, researchers and anybody working in a setting that requires science to be presented effectively to capture and mobilise the imagination of an audience. Participants will be introduced to the world of information design and data visualisation where the intersection of text and image, perception and cognition, process and leadership, beauty and function, logic and emotion, enables us to reveal the wealth of information within the data and to deliver effective messages.

Content

The following modules will be covered:

Module 1: The Design Process - As a major domain of design research and practice, ‘co-design’ encapsulates a way of approaching data visualisation that ensures a deep and shared understanding between those creating the visuals and the audience. Participants will explore co-design methods for visualisation projects aimed at including multiple stakeholders and perspectives, and methods for co-creating visualisations. Takeaway: Gain step-by-step tools for ensuring authentic participation.

Module 2: The Toolkit - This module offers participants the chance to familiarise themselves with the essential components of a toolkit that Angela and Tom have refined over 18 years of working with scientific organisations. The tool kit focuses on methods for transforming scientific findings into clear and accessible narrative. Takeaway: Gain a basic knowledge of concrete tools for building meaningful visualisations. 

Module 3: The Narrative - Participants will explore the dynamic between evidence and storytelling, learning to craft compelling narratives that resonate with the audience needs while balancing rigour and creativity. Takeaway: Gain skill in techniques for creating compelling narratives.

Module 4: Make It Memorable - In this concluding module, participants will put into action the knowledge acquired from previous modules to prototype a visual narrative tailored to their audience's needs. Takeaway: Gain hands-on experience in transforming knowledge into practice.