Session Proposal: DH Tools and Platforms

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My intention for this session is in part to engage in a conversation about sharing what types of tools have been used successfully or unsuccessfully with regards to mapping, timelines, and online exhibitions. I think, however, the conversation should also consider how to critically choose a tool that best supports the learning objectives and research questions of  the students. Each tool/platform has both strengths and weaknesses that need to be evaluated within the context of the goals of the class and project.  Often we get caught up using the new or the shiny but we cannot forget to consider the theoretical framework and methodologies before choosing a tool.

2 Responses to Session Proposal: DH Tools and Platforms

  1. Hi Jessica,
    Sounds like a great subject. One of the things I’ve noticed is that the strengths and weaknesses of specific representational tools are discussed in isolation, not in the context of the wider technological environment. This is probably because of legitimate time and technical skill limitations, but perhaps technical assistance from outside the classroom can be introduced to the pedagogical process.
    I like to export materials from a generating tool(s) for editing in more general, flexible tools such as video and imaging software (e.g., Photoshop, Illustrator, Final Cut Pro). This can allow groups to “mash-up” the best features of multiple tools to create a more personalized visualization. While ArcGIS is a great tool, sometimes I want to export work from ArcGIS and improve it visually using imaging software. As a visualization technologist focused on the end-user (not focused on research), I want to illustrate important concepts in the best possible way, not according to specific platforms. This is similar to using other programs to improve the labels on an Excel chart – it’s the effectiveness (and accuracy) of the delivered representation that counts for me.
    One could argue that an article is a composed summary of wider research, carefully pruned, and that the accompanying illustrations such as those utilizing maps need need to be carefully composed (and condensed) with the audience in mind.