Slowing Down Qualitative Data Visualization: Exploring Image Data with the Pointillizer

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session Thursday 4:15 pm - Gold 4
  In Roundtable Session: Qualitative Inquiry in the Age of AI: Reflexivity, Collaboration, Cultural Responsiveness, and a Counter Balance

Abstract

This paper presents a tool called The Pointillizer that enables qualitative researchers to explore image data by adjusting the speed at which an image renders and the dot size of the image’s pixels. In describing The Pointillizer, we offer the concept of Slow Methods, as a response to the accelerating pace of research (and pace of life) and a counter-balance to automating qualitative research with AI. Through discussion of literature on qualitative data visualization and temporality, we interrogate accelerationism and align Slow Methods with social movements like Slow Foods, Slow Cities, and Slow Tech. Slices of data from education research projects demonstrate the possibilities for engaging with The Pointillizer to slow down qualitative analysis towards a more deliberate research process.

Authors

• Deborah Silvis, SUNY - College at Cortland

• Ben Rydal Shapiro, Georgia State University