Introduction to Data Analysis, Data Visualization, and Digital Footprints

In this article, the author examines the teaching of data analysis and visualization for secondary students, beginning with background information about data literacy – its definition, necessity, and importance for students at the high school level. Next, the author provides two 5E lessons that situate data literacy in social practices authentic to secondary students: Critical Data Analysis and Interpretation for a better understanding of data’s stories and Mapping Your Digital Footprint, a lesson designed to help students become aware of the information they intentionally or unintentionally share online when visiting websites and apps, the metadata attached to those posts, and how individuals can infer additional information about them from that information. Lesson two ends with instructions about how they can be more selective about what they share and who they share it with.