Data Visualization and Storytelling (368-DL-20)
Instructors
Kimberly Brook Pusateri
Kimberly Pusateri is an associate professor of instruction and academic advisor in the Department of
Communication Studies. She is also liaison for New Student and Family Programming, which includes coordination of
School of Communication participation in Wildcat Welcome, Wildcat Days, and Family Weekend. Kimberly teaches a
variety of undergraduate classes such as Improving Patient-Provider Communication (first year seminar), Introduction to
Health Communication, The Social Context of Illness, Public Speaking and the Strategic Communication Capstone.
Meeting Info
Online: TBA
Overview of class
Stories are central to how we make sense of the world—and in strategic communication, they are essential tools for shaping perception, building trust, and driving action. In an era of information overload, stories alone are not enough. We must also ground our narratives in data. This course teaches students how to transform complex data into clear, compelling stories. Through hands-on projects and real-world applications, students will gain experience locating and analyzing datasets, identifying key insights, and presenting findings in formats suited to diverse stakeholders. By the end of the course, students will be equipped to use data not just as evidence, but as a powerful storytelling tool in service of strategic communication.
Registration Requirements
Prerequisites: none
Learning Objectives
By the end of this course, students will be able to:
1. Assess the suitability of diverse data sources in fulfilling strategic communication goals
2. Analyze the effectiveness of messaging strategies in conveying data to targeted audiences
3. Apply communication principles and techniques to create engaging and persuasive narratives from data, tailored for various audiences, platforms, and objectives
4. Exhibit proficiency in presentation skills that incorporate data
Class Materials (Required)
Confirm course texts and materials by contacting instructor or viewing course Canvas site or University bookstore website.
Class Attributes
Asynchronous:Remote class-no scheduled mtg time