Teaching Data Journalism in a World of Tool and Tech Overload

Abstract

Against a backdrop of systemic disruption in the field of journalism writ large, data journalism represents a subarea that is undergoing rapid transformation due to the introduction of new tools and techniques as well as the changes in reporting practices as journalists and newsrooms experiment and innovate. This paper explores the challenges for data journalism educators to teach in such a rapidly shifting landscape. Drawing from our experiences teaching journalism students in higher education, we assert that the goal of data journalism education amidst this complexity is not to teach tech, nor even to teach technical skills, but rather to model for students strategies of dealing with transformation and complexity. These include peer learning, hands-on learning activities, modeling learning and information seeking, and establishing a culture of critique. We introduce a number of activities that put those approaches into practice, drawing on learning literature to support our fellow educators shifting from the "banking model" of education [10] to a learner-centered model [23]. Working with students to co-create knowledge, acting as a "Guide on the Side"[15] can help better prepare students for the constantly evolving ecosystem of technologies and tools that support data journalism.

Thinking Spatially About Data: A Developing Framework to Understand Children's Spatial Reasoning in Data Physicalization

“…The physicality of tangible user interfaces affords ample opportunities for spatial interactions and spatial reconfiguration [13,59], which can help reduce excessive cognitive load required to process all spatial information mentally [59,61], and may further support children's understanding of the problem space and their idea development [12,59]. Specifically, low-tech, hands-on materials used in data physicalization allow visualization novices like children to experiment with different ideas and make adjustments handily [19,20]. Moreover, data physicalization activities are highly engaging [14,20], spark creativity [21,22], and enhance the understanding of data [22,23].…”

Put a Label On It! Approaches for Constructing and Contextualizing Bar Chart Physicalizations

“…because the intention is purely aesthetic and/or by estimation). Particularly exploratory physicalizations such as data sculptures [4,34,44,54] or data installations with complex ecosystems [25,33,38,39] do not provide on-physicalization labeling.…”

“…We used two datasets of similar structure and complexity as Huron et al [17] (included in supplementary material). The frst dataset 4 represented CO 2 emissions in tons per person for fve diferent countries, across three years. The second dataset 5 represented rainfall in the United Kingdom in millimeters for four seasons, across four years.…”

Tidak pasti, jangan kongsi!! Secret Sauce for Success in Media Literacy Is Crucial in Battling Fake News

“…Data journalism has introduced new tools and ideas to media practitioners and transformed reporting patterns into; it is a dynamic, expanding discipline. Bhargava and D'Ignazio (2021) did an excellent job of describing information searching and critical thinking. Journalists are using data journalism to analyse digital content more deeply.…”