Overview
This course examines the methodological, analytical, and communicative dimensions of spatial data visualization. Students investigate how classification, symbolization, scale, projection, colour, layout, interaction, annotation, and interface design influence the interpretation of spatial information.
Topics include cartographic design, exploratory and explanatory visualization, thematic mapping, choropleth and proportional-symbol maps, dot-density and flow maps, bivariate and multivariate displays, temporal and three-dimensional visualization, dashboards, web maps, accessibility, colour-vision considerations, uncertainty visualization, ethical representation, and narrative cartography.
Methodological work addresses data cleaning, generalization, aggregation, spatial joins, normalization, scale effects, and the relationship between analytical purpose and visual form. Students use GIS platforms and computational tools to produce, critique, and communicate static, interactive, and publication-quality visualizations for academic, professional, and public audiences.
Learning Outcomes
- Evaluate spatial data visualizations using cartographic, statistical, usability, accessibility, and ethical principles.
- Select appropriate spatial data methods and visual forms for defined analytical and communicative purposes.
- Prepare, clean, generalize, aggregate, normalize, and join spatial data for visualization.
- Design accurate, readable, and audience-appropriate static maps, interactive interfaces, dashboards, and web maps.
- Represent spatial uncertainty, sensitive information, and data limitations responsibly.
- Critique the effects of classification, scale, projection, symbolization, colour, and aggregation on interpretation.
- Synthesize spatial evidence into written, oral, and interactive narratives that explain geographic patterns clearly.
- Defend visualization decisions through documented workflows, methodological justification, and reflective evaluation.
Timetable
| Type | Length | Frequency | Period |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lecture | 2 hours | Weekly | All semester |
| Lab | 2 hours | Weekly | All semester |
| Tutorial | 1 hour | Fortnightly | All semester |
| Workshop | 2 hours | Fortnightly | Second term |
Assessment Schedule
| Type | Description | Weighting |
|---|---|---|
| Assignment | Map critique portfolio (2 × 10%) | 20.00% |
| Deliverable | Visualization laboratories (4 × 5%) | 20.00% |
| Assignment | Redesign exercise | 15.00% |
| Capstone | Interactive dashboard or web-map project | 25.00% |
| Deliverable | Documented visualization portfolio | 10.00% |
| Exam | Final examination | 10.00% |
Prerequisites
Teaching Staff & Programs
This course is delivered jointly by faculty from the participating programs listed below. In line with the Douchewater Way, the University of Sexology tailors core instruction directly to each cohort's specific discipline — adapting curriculum to program needs rather than forcing students into a one-size-fits-all model. Learn more about our approach at The Douchewater Way.