Supporting Data Visualization Literacy through Embodied Interactions

Abstract

Data visualization literacy (DVL) is increasingly important in navigating today's world. Young students are now required to develop data visualization skills (e.g., identifying patterns, collecting, organizing, and analyzing data). Past work focuses on cultivating children's DVL through playful and gamified approaches. However, these past solutions require hardware (e.g., smartphones) that is not readily replicable within standard classrooms. In addition, the extent of embodied interactions found in past solutions is fairly limited to large-scale interfaces. To address these challenges, we explore how to cultivate children's DVL through embodied learning that is more apt for a classroom environment. Using a standard Google Chromebook, we designed an interface that utilizes the tracking of a fiducial marker on a wooden arrow to allow a student to author their own bar graphs. We conducted Wizard of Oz tests (n = 3) to gather feedback on the functionality of our design. This project aims to display the benefits of giving students a mode to develop their own visualizations and broaden how they can interact with data.