Data Journeys in Popular Science: Producing Climate Change and COVID-19 Data Visualizations at Scientific American

Core Concepts

Data visualizations in popular science magazines play a crucial role in communicating complex topics like climate change and COVID-19 to broader audiences, highlighting the importance of transparency, collaboration, and open data practices.

Abstract

This article explores the production of data visualizations at Scientific American, focusing on climate change and COVID-19. It delves into the practices involved in creating visualizations, the transformation of academic visualizations into narrative ones, and the considerations for print and online versions. The study emphasizes the importance of transparency, collaborative work, and the affordances of open data in science communication.
Structure:

Introduction

Open data's role in crisis communication.

Data Visualizations in Science Communication

Importance of narrative visualizations in popular science.

Data Visualization Production Practices

Decision-making processes at Scientific American.

Transformations in Visualizations

Alterations made to academic visualizations for popular science.

Creating New Vehicles

Crafting visualizations for print and online consumption.

Discussion

Affordances of working with open data in science communication.

Stats

"Vast amounts of (open) data are increasingly used to make arguments about crisis topics such as climate change and global pandemics."
"Data visualizations are central to bringing these viewpoints to broader publics."
"Data journeys are composed of a myriad of techniques, efforts, instruments, infrastructures, and institutions used to mobilize and process data."
"SciAm frequently works with data that have passed through research settings."
"Working with data directly affords more than just copyright ownership of graphics; doing so also enables SciAm staff to be creative and diverse in their visual designs."

Quotes

"If it's about elephants, I want to see the elephants. If it's about the James Webb Space Telescope, we want to see the images from the Space Telescope." - P11
"Data visualizations are just one part of the visual plan of a story; each visual element has affordances about what it can communicate." - P8
"Graphics can be used to grab readers’ attention and advance a story in ways not possible through text." - P1

Key Insights Distilled From

Data journeys in popular science

by Kath... at arxiv.org 03-27-2024

https://arxiv.org/pdf/2310.18011.pdf

Deeper Inquiries

How can popular science magazines sustain the resources needed for in-depth data visualization production?

Popular science magazines can sustain the resources needed for in-depth data visualization production through various strategies. One approach is to establish partnerships with academic institutions or research organizations to access data and expertise. Collaborating with scientists and researchers can provide valuable insights and data for creating visualizations. Additionally, magazines can invest in training their staff in data analysis and visualization techniques to build in-house expertise. This can help reduce reliance on external sources and ensure a consistent quality of visualizations.
Furthermore, popular science magazines can explore funding opportunities from grants, sponsorships, or partnerships with organizations interested in science communication. Securing financial support can help cover the costs associated with data visualization production, such as software, tools, and personnel. Additionally, magazines can leverage digital platforms and tools to streamline the visualization creation process and reach a wider audience online. By optimizing workflows and utilizing technology effectively, magazines can enhance efficiency and productivity in data visualization production.

How can the concept of data journeys be applied to enhance transparency in other forms of science communication?

The concept of data journeys can be applied to enhance transparency in other forms of science communication by emphasizing the process through which data are collected, analyzed, and presented. By tracing the journey of data from its creation to its interpretation, communicators can provide audiences with a deeper understanding of the context and potential biases involved in data-driven narratives. This transparency can help build trust with the audience and promote critical thinking about the information presented.
One way to enhance transparency using the concept of data journeys is to provide detailed references and citations to data sources in scientific publications, reports, or visualizations. By clearly indicating where the data originated and how it was processed, audiences can verify the information and assess its reliability. Additionally, communicators can engage in open dialogue about the data journey, discussing the challenges, limitations, and decisions made during the data analysis and visualization process.
Moreover, incorporating visual storytelling techniques that highlight the data journey can make complex information more accessible and engaging for audiences. By visualizing the process of data collection, analysis, and interpretation, communicators can demystify scientific concepts and promote a more inclusive and transparent approach to science communication. Ultimately, applying the concept of data journeys can foster greater accountability, credibility, and understanding in science communication practices.