Classroom Demonstration: Data Visualization in Introductory Statistics Classes---Maps and Bubble Charts

• Activity Number: 443
• Type: Contributed
• Date/Time: Tuesday, August 11, 2015 : 2:00 PM to 3:50 PM
• Sponsor: Section on Statistical Education
• Author(s): Eric Suess*
• Companies: California State University at East Bay
• Keywords: bubble chart ; maps ; MS Excel ; google charts ; Minitab ; tableau

Abstract

We present the use of new visualization methods for Introductory Statistics classes at the undergraduate, major and graduate levels. Because of the wide availability of bubble charts and maps in software, these types of plots can easily be included in the discussion during the beginning parts of an Introductory Statistics course.

In addition to pie charts, bar graphs, box-plots, etc., bubble charts can be introduced with motion to visualize time. The motion is an excellent demonstration of modern software and is more engaging for beginning Statistics students. Bubble charts can be used to present 4 and 5 dimensional data.

Maps are very easily made with software and because they are commonly used online, giving students the ability to connect maps to the concepts being presented in class adds to the class experience.