Data Visualization as Participatory Research: A Model for Digital Collections to Inspire User-Driven Research |
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| Authors: | A Miller |
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| Institution: | Walker Library, Middle Tennessee State University, Murfreesboro, Tennessee, USAA. Millera.miller@mtsu.edu |
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| Abstract: | The emerging creative practices of digital collections are increasing in prominence thanks to the access to, and appeal of, data visualizations. Interactive data visualizations, such as a map, timeline, chart, graph, or artist’s rendering of data, enable users to pursue their own research interests within a collection and participate in new areas of research. Use of these data visualizations enhances the scope of the collection and enables a modern and diverse thematic collection to emerge. This article considers the question: Does the addition of data visualizations affect how users participate with a research collection? Impacts on collection development, application of user-centered design, and analysis of users’ exploratory strategies are discussed. Examples of data visualizations used in digital humanities projects and digital collections are presented as case studies. |
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| Keywords: | data visualization digital collections participatory research exploratory search digital scholarship thematic collections library collection human-centered design |
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