Show Me the GIFference! Using data-GIFs as Educational Tools
TU Wien, Lorenzo Amabili, Eduard M. Groller, TU Wien and VRVis, Renata G. Raidou, TU Wien · Computer Science Research Notes · 2024
We investigate the use of data-GIFs, i.e., graphics interchange format files containing short animations, to engage visualization viewers in learning about data visualization design pitfalls. A large number of data visualizations are generated every day to convey information to the general population, among which, also several with bad data designs. To support non-expert viewers in recognizing common visualization design mistakes, we propose data-GIFs. These are short educational animations played in automatic repetition with a single core message on how the design flaws of a given visualization can be identified. After defining what bad data visualization design entails, we inform the design requirements for the data-GIFs. We, subsequently, designed four variants: two data-GIFs, which use respectively interchangeability and smooth transitions, a static variant with juxtaposition, and a data-video approach with audio. In a controlled user study with 48 participants, we compare the four variants. We demonstrate that interchangeability and smooth transitions effectively support viewers in assessing why elements characterizing bad data visualizations are indeed bad. Yet, smooth transitions are more engaging, and data-videos are more efficient for the identification of differences between bad and good data visualization designs.