Get-Started

This is an update - especially for those who joined class late (we admitted a lot of students on or after the first day, but we should be done for now). We want everyone to get caught up on the first few assignments as soon as possible. Hopefully, we can get through the mechanics and administrative stuff and focused on learning Visualization!

Canvas is central to the online parts of the class. It is worth taking time upfront to learn to use it effectively and to configure it to your needs.

If you are just getting started, the most important things to know (in a suggested order to read them):

• If you haven’t read What Is This Class and Why? page you should. Make sure you want to be here. Check the Requirements as well.
• You might want to read the What is Visualization? tutorial (this will be a reading assignment in week 1) to get a sense of the course philosophy.
• Understand the Communications Policy policy to know what there is beyond this web page.
• Look at the Parts of Class which will give you an idea of how the class works. There are required class meetings (“lectures”), 3 regular weekly tasks (discussion, seek-and-find, survey), and design exercises.
• All these pieces shouldn’t be too hard to keep track of because there is a Weekly Rhythm.
• Look at the Schedule to get a sense of what will happen this semester (at least what is scheduled so far).
• You should understand the course Policies.
• You don’t need to purchase Books since we will provide the required readings online, but you must come to class and bring art supplies (see Class Meetings (attendance policy)).
• If you’re concerned about Grading and Late Policy, the grading plan might not make you feel better.
• And then look at The Week in Vis: Week 01 to see what’s happening the first week!