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Spatial Visualization Types

Run the Spatial Viz Types MicroSim Fullscreen Edit the Spatial Viz Types MicroSim Using the p5.js Editor

Description

This interactive MicroSim displays six common types of spatial visualizations used in educational content, data presentation, and technical documentation. Each visualization type serves a specific purpose, and choosing the right one is essential for effective communication.

Features

  • Interactive Grid: Hover over each visualization type to learn about it
  • Icon Representations: Each type features a distinctive icon
  • Use Case Guidance: Tooltip shows when to use each visualization type
  • Example Applications: Real-world examples for each category

The Six Spatial Visualization Types

  1. Geographic Map (Blue) - For showing location-based data and regional distribution across real-world geography

  2. Schematic Diagram (Orange) - For showing system components and their logical connections without concern for physical scale

  3. Floor Plan (Green) - For showing the layout of physical spaces, rooms, and navigation within buildings

  4. Anatomical View (Red) - For showing internal structure of biological or complex systems with precise spatial relationships

  5. Network Topology (Purple) - For showing connections between nodes, relationships, or data flow paths

  6. 3D Model (Teal) - For showing three-dimensional objects that need rotation or multiple viewing angles

Choosing the Right Visualization

Visualization Type Best For Avoid When
Geographic Map Real-world locations, regional data Abstract relationships
Schematic Diagram System architecture, workflows Physical layouts
Floor Plan Building navigation, space planning Conceptual relationships
Anatomical View Internal structures, layered systems Simple components
Network Topology Relationships, connections Geographic accuracy matters
3D Model Physical objects, complex shapes 2D sufficient

Embedding This MicroSim

You can include this MicroSim on your website using the following iframe:

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<iframe src="https://dmccreary.github.io/automating-instructional-design/sims/spatial-viz-types/main.html" height="452px" scrolling="no"></iframe>

Lesson Plan

Objective

Students will understand when to use different types of spatial visualizations and be able to select the appropriate type for a given communication goal.

Activities

  1. Exploration (5 minutes): Have students hover over each visualization type to discover their use cases and examples.

  2. Discussion (10 minutes): As a class, discuss:

  3. What makes each type unique?
  4. Why would you choose a schematic over a floor plan?

  5. When might you need a 3D model vs. a 2D diagram?

  6. Application (15 minutes): Give students various scenarios and have them identify which visualization type would be most effective:

  7. Showing how a car engine works
  8. Displaying sales data by country
  9. Explaining computer network security

  10. Planning an office renovation

  11. Creation (10 minutes): Have students sketch a simple example of one visualization type for a topic in their curriculum.

Assessment

Students demonstrate understanding by correctly matching scenarios to visualization types and justifying their choices.

References

  • Tufte, E.R. (1990). Envisioning Information. Graphics Press.
  • Few, S. (2012). Show Me the Numbers: Designing Tables and Graphs to Enlighten. Analytics Press.
  • Cairo, A. (2012). The Functional Art: An Introduction to Information Graphics and Visualization. New Riders.