Challenges and Opportunities in Data Visualization Education: A Call to Action.

Area of Science:

• Data Visualization Education
• Information Science
• Human-Computer Interaction

Background:

• Data visualization is increasingly integral to professional and personal life.
• The discipline's complexity and diverse applications pose unique educational challenges.
• There's a need for consolidated knowledge and guidance in data visualization education.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify and articulate key challenges in data visualization education.
• To stimulate research and discussion on improving data visualization pedagogy.
• To provide a framework for advancing data visualization education.

Main Methods:

• A collective effort by 21 data visualization educators and researchers.
• Identification and description of 19 challenges based on practical experience.
• Categorization of challenges into seven themes: People, Goals & Assessment, Environment, Motivation, Methods, Materials, and Change.

Main Results:

• 19 distinct challenges in data visualization education were identified and described.
• 43 research questions were formulated to address these challenges.
• Five cross-cutting opportunities (Diversity+Inclusion, Communities, Research, Agile, Responsibility) were proposed.

Conclusions:

• Data visualization education requires a proactive, inclusive, and research-driven approach.
• Building communities and embracing agile methodologies are crucial for progress.
• Addressing these challenges will empower a diverse community of learners in data visualization.