In this course, we will explore building interactive data visualization and data science tools. Together, we will consider the latest research from traditional user experience, information design, interactive storytelling, and video game design. However, keeping things practical, guest lectures from industry and academia will complement our discussions. Finally, we will sharpen our skills through hands-on projects using the latest technologies.

[ Outline ]
In this project-based course we will explore data visualization theory and fundamentals before studying cutting edge work in interactive data science. Participants will be able to build data visualizations and other interactive experiences to share your data findings with others. Taught by research staff at Berkeley, get hands-on experience in crafting digital tools which help both you and your users navigate data-heavy tasks and uncover insights. With guest lecture opportunities, learn from professionals with experience from Google, Apple, and others about how to tell impactful stories that engage your readers emotionally through data all while incorporating ethics and accessibility into your work. I hope you will join us!

[ Purpose ]
Data are essential to how we experience and understand the world. The way we interact with tools, analyses, and simulations all change the insights we learn, the stories we tell, the actions we take, who is included, and what is left out. Together we will learn how to design those tools for the future of data. We will emphasize practical techniques and technical skills needed to make both word-class data visualizations and interactive data science tools.

[Meetings]
Driven by your creativity, we will offer fun engaging in-person meetings twice weekly at 3pm Monday and Wednesday.

[Grading]
Attendance highly encouraged but not required. We will try to post manually transcribed rehearsal recordings online in a timely fashion. Other accommodations available. Grades based on projects and other interactive assignments. No exams or papers.

[More info]
We hope you will join us for this fun and engaging exploration of interactive data. We look forward to seeing what incredible things you will build. More info is available online at https://interactivedatascience.courses including limited previous recorded lectures and the syllabus. Feel free to email us with questions!

We would love to take on every student who expresses interest in the course. However, to provide adequate support to participants, we are capping to 20 students. Preference will be given in the following order if more than 20 students sign up: Ability to attend lectures in person, prior Python experience, prior programming experience in any language, prior design experience, seniority, and order of expressed interest.