Data Visualization in R with ggplot2

Overview

Class Central Tips

Data visualization is a critical skill for anyone that routinely using quantitative data in his or her work - which is to say that data visualization is a tool that almost every worker needs today. One of the critical tools for data visualization today is the R statistical programming language. Especially in conjunction with the tidyverse software packages, R has become an extremely powerful and flexible platform for making figures, tables, and reproducible reports. However, R can be intimidating for first time users, and there are so many resources online that it can be difficult to sort through without guidance. This course is the second in a specialization in Data Visualization offered by Johns Hopkins. It is intended for learners who have either have some experience with R and data wrangling in the tidyverse or have taken the previous course in the specialization. The focus in this course learning to use ggplot2 to make a variety of visualizations and to polish those visualizations using tools within ggplot as well as vector graphics editing software. The course will not go into detail about how the data management works behind the scenes.

Syllabus

Introduction to the Grammar of Graphics

In this module, we will get started using ggplot2. You should begin by watching the introductory videos in each lesson. Then, carefully review the readings and reference materials provided. Once you have done that, I recommend watching the videos again to check your understanding. You will take a few quizzes as you progress through the material to make sure you are keeping up.

More Visualizations with ggplot

In this module, we will continue working with ggplot, learning additional types of visualization techniques. You should begin by watching the introductory videos in each lesson. Then, carefully review the readings and reference materials provided. Once you have done that, I recommend watching the videos again to check your understanding. You will take a few quizzes as you progress through the material to make sure you are keeping up.

ggplot Graphical Elements

In this module, we will cover how to refine plots created in ggplot2. You should begin by watching the introductory videos in each lesson. Then, carefully review the readings and reference materials provided. Once you have done that, I recommend watching the videos again to check your understanding. You will take a few quizzes as you progress through the material to make sure you are keeping up. Then, at the end of the module, you will submit an assignment for peer review that covers all of the material in this course.