Course content

The course is divided into 3 modules:

Module 1: Introduction to Visual Perception

The first module delves into the basic aspects of how humans perceive visual elements. Understanding perception is crucial for any form of visual communication. This module covers the principles that govern perception, explores how the brain interprets visual information, and how this understanding can be leveraged to create impactful design.

Module 2: Visualization of Information

This module is about transforming raw data into compelling graphic representations in the form of graphs and other forms of data visualization. The focus is on design strategies that enhance clarity and ensure that the graphs effectively communicate the intended message. Here, the skills to make data not only visible but easily understandable are central.

Module 3: Visual Storytelling

The final module focuses on visual storytelling. Whether the information is to be presented on a website, a PowerPoint/Keynote presentation, or in other media, it is important to tell a story that not only captivates the observer but is also clearly and understandably designed. In this module, the focus will be on the ability to combine knowledge from the two previous modules with plain language.

The course combines theoretical knowledge with practical exercises.

Learning outcome

Knowledge

The candidate has knowledge about:

• how cognition and observational abilities in humans affect the possibilities for information visualization and can make informed choices based on this
• the difference between well-known information visualization techniques, including advantages and disadvantages they have in relation to types of data, functionality, adaptability, and scalability
• the use of communication with clear wording, language, and visual design

Skills

The candidate can:

• use data visualization as a tool in the design of presentations, websites, apps, and other digital surfaces in combination with clear language to be able to tell a story in an engaging and clear manner

General Competence

Through a course involving process-oriented essay writing, based on formative ongoing evaluation, the student will incrementally have:

• Improved their analytical skills
• Their ability for critical reflection
• Their skill in written expression
• Their ability to gather and synthesize information
• Their skill in source criticism
• Their ability to practice accurate referencing and citation

In addition, through practical projects and theoretical knowledge, they will have:

• Acquired general knowledge relevant to making informed choices concerning visual tools for information visualization, storytelling, and language.

Learning methods and activities

All three modules contain a combination of lectures and assignments.

Module 1 is theoretically based and concludes with an individual essay submission.

Module 2 is based on a combination of theory and practice and includes individual exercise tasks, as well as a mid-term exam.

Module 3 is more practically oriented and consists of a practical project where knowledge from modules 1 and 2, as well as theory from module 3, are combined into a group project.

Further on evaluation

All activities connect to the different modules must be passed in order to pass the course. If failed, the course must be taken again at the next regular completion of the course.

The department may consider approving passed partial assignments from previous semesters when repeated.

Specific conditions

Required previous knowledge

Prerequisite: IDG1000 or another basic course in graphic tools, principles, and methods.

Course materials

Information about the course material will be provided at the start of the semester