Designing a web-based learning portal for geographic visualization and analysis in public health

Area of Science:

• Geographic Information Systems (GIS) in Public Health
• Geovisualization and Spatial Analysis
• Health Informatics and Data Science

Background:

• Interactive mapping and spatial analysis tools are underutilized in public health due to limited training and sharing mechanisms.
• Geovisualization adoption is hindered by a lack of accessible learning resources and examples.
• Effective geovisualization requires bridging the gap between mapping scientists and public health professionals.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report on the development of the Geovisual EXplication (G-EX) Portal, a web-based application connecting geovisualization researchers with public health users.
• To focus on the design and development of the G-EX Portal Learn module for disseminating geovisualization learning artifacts.
• To address the scarcity of training materials and sharing mechanisms for geovisualization in public health.

Main Methods:

• Development of the G-EX Portal, a web-based application for geovisualization and public health research.
• Focus on the iterative design and development of the G-EX Portal Learn module.
• Conducted a needs assessment survey with targeted public health and epidemiology end-users.

Main Results:

• Survey results indicate users desire diverse learning artifacts in various formats and topics.
• Users expressed willingness to contribute learning artifacts and credibility information.
• The G-EX Portal Learn module design was modified based on user feedback regarding learning preferences and contribution issues.

Conclusions:

• The G-EX Portal aims to improve the use and usability of geovisualization in public health research.
• The Learn module is designed to disseminate learning artifacts effectively, addressing identified user needs.
• User-centered design, informed by needs assessment, is crucial for developing effective geovisualization tools for public health.