Critical Data Storytelling Through Photography

• In Event: Contextually Embedded Learning Environments

Abstract

Critical data literacy includes understanding that data are neither neutral nor objective and social issues can be investigated through a process of data inquiry using interdisciplinary tools. We co-designed an arts-integrated data literacy unit with two middle school teachers, who implemented it with their 20 students. Building on practices based in documentary photography, the unit engaged students in telling data stories about their neighborhoods. We ask: (1) How might students communicate data stories through photo-essays and (2) engage critically with data in the process? Student stories highlighted the limitations of government data to describe local issues and used photography to make sense of and show the local context behind neighborhood statistics. Findings suggest opportunities to support data literacy through art.

Authors

• Anna Amato, New York University
  Presenting Author

• Camillia Matuk, New York University
  Presenting Author

• Kayla DesPortes, New York University
  Presenting Author

• Peter J. Woods, Massachusetts Institute of Technology
  Presenting Author

• Megan Silander, Education Development Center, Inc.
  Presenting Author

• Jill Beale, New York University
  Presenting Author

• Marian Tes, New York University
  Presenting Author

• Ralph Vacca, Fordham University
  Presenting Author