Midterm Comparison Project

In this midterm project, you’ll compare and assess examples of professional information graphics based on a theme, then present your findings to the class.

Part 1: Choose Two Examples

1. First, choose two examples of professional data visualizations that are related in some way, such as using the same data or explaining the same topic.

The following table includes annual collections published by professional news organizations known for producing award-winning data visualizations. At least one of your two examples must come from one of these lists.

*Note that not everything on these lists may count as a data visualization. Some include visual stories told with photos, video, documents or illustrations rather than data. Make sure you choose examples that include clear examples of data visualization that you can discuss using course vocabulary.

Both examples may come from these lists, though only one is required. The two examples should have a similar topic, and the analysis will work best if you look for examples you can either compare over time (such as election in 2016 and 2020) or compare from multiple sources (such as different organizations covering the mass shootings or global warming, like we’ve used for discussions).

Some ideas for finding comparisons:

• Major news event covered by many media organizations, such as elections or sports events
• Data used by various industries, such as coronavirus dashboards published by health care companies, government agencies, academic researchers, and news organizations
• Visualizations that have a similar form, such as choropleth maps of U.S. counties used for many different purposes

Part 2: Research and Describe

Next, you will write about each example individually to show understanding of course principles including chart forms, data types, visual styles and effective design. In a text document, complete this information for each example:

Your written descriptions should total 400-800 words, so approximately 200-400 words for each example.

Part 3: Compare and Assess

Complete your written paper with a comparison of the two examples. Add this to the end of your written document after the descriptions of your examples:

Your writing for this section should be approximately 400-800 words. In total, your written paper should be about 800-1600 words.

Your written comparison will be evaluated based on the following:

• Demonstrates understanding and application of relevant course principles, including vocabulary terms
• Shows thoughtfulness in the explanations, including some research if necessary to fully understand and interpret each graphic
• Uses direct, conversational writing without typos or grammatical errors

Part 4: Present your Findings

Finally, in a 2-minute video presentation, you will show your two examples and explain key points from your written assessment. The presentation will be a screen recording similar to the lectures in this class, pairing your voice with visuals. You will make the recording and upload it to YouTube or Vimeo.

Your presentation should:

• Be 2 minutes in length (no penalty if between 1:45 and 2:15)
• Be engaging and organized, without significant stumbles
• Show both of your examples
• Thoroughly and concisely describe the examples so we know what we’re looking at
• Include your conclusion about which is a better graphic
• Include at least one lesson or takeaway that can be applied to charts we create in class

Creating screen recordings: There are many software programs for creating screen recordings. If you have a Mac, the built-in Quicktime software includes a screen recording option. Screencast-o-matic is an option that doesn’t require any software downloads for Windows computers. There are many other options; please ask if you are not sure what technology will work best for you.

Submitting Your Work

Complete this assignment by submitting the following materials to Canvas:

• Your text document
• Link to your recorded presentation