Data visualisation for journalists

Course Type: In-Company | Course Category: Journalism

Course Introduction

An overview of how to use data visualisation effectively in print, digital and broadcast news.

What's it about?

Databases and spreadsheets are now invaluable sources for journalists. This one-day course offers an overview of the key techniques needed for analysing data accurately and finding stories in large datasets. It covers both static and interactive graphic design. As well as sharing best practice examples from leading news outlets, the tutors will run two hands-on workshop sessions, where participants will be given focused data visualisation challenges.

Who should attend?

The course is aimed at any journalists who want to learn more about the most useful data visualisation techniques and tools.

Learning outcomes

  • Analysing data and some of the key pitfalls
  • Understanding how to select data so that it tells a coherent story
  • Using text effectively so that it complements your visuals
  • An understanding of the possibilities and limitations of specific charts
  • Using layout, colour and font choices to create more engaging charts
  • Recommended books, tools and software

Benefits

At the end of this course, you will have a solid grasp of the different ways in which data visualisation can be used in your journalism and an understanding of which software will help you to develop your charts and diagrams further.

Course Structure Highlights

  • Defining a process for your data visualisation project
  • Understanding the spectrum of good practice
  • An introduction to different schools of thought on data visualisation and the key practitioners: Edward Tufte, Nathan Yau, David McCandless
  • How to analyse data without introducing undue bias
  • How to turn a dataset into a relatable story
  • How to use design elements to make your story more engaging and shareable
  • How to structure an interactive story
  • A walkthrough of the key data visualisation tools

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