About the Microcredential

Estimated Completion Time: 2.5 hours

Introduction to Data Visualization provides a foundational understanding of data literacy and visualization principles, guiding you through the history, functions, and ethical considerations of the field. This UNT-certified microcredential is divided into four modules, covering the value of effective data visualization, exploring cognitive load theory and visual perception techniques, and culminating with design best practices that equip you to create clear and impactful visualizations. Introduction to Data Visualization is presented by UNT's Advanced Data Analytics Program.

Use our Introduction to Data Visualization: Employer Support Letter Template to assist in asking for your supervisor's support to enroll in the microcredential. 

For any questions, please email: microcredentials@unt.edu.

What You Will Learn Key Principles 

• Define key principles of data literacy and data visualization.
• Context: Understand the history, functions, ethics, and value of data visualization.
• Visual Perception Techniques: Incorporate visual perception techniques to help audiences know where to look and avoid cognitive overload.

Microcredential Features

• Flexible Learning Format: This microcredential is delivered in an online asynchronous format, allowing learners to engage with the content at their own pace. This course is delivered on the Canvas platform. Please check the Canvas Technology Requirements.
• Video Lectures and Quizzes: Video lectures provide in-depth knowledge and practical examples, paired with short quizzes to reinforce your learning.
• Optional Assignments: Deepen your understanding by completing optional, hands-on assignments.

About the Author

Dr. LeAnn Boyce is Clinical Assistant Professor of Advanced Data Analytics (ADTA) and recipient of UNT's 2023 Outstanding Online Teacher and Course Award. Dr. Boyce joined the ADTA faculty in 2020. She has a non-traditional background with a start in the healthcare field, working as a Registered Respiratory Therapist in adult and neonatal intensive care, emergency room, medical flights, and home care. While raising her two sons, she started back to school to “finish” her bachelor’s degree. Seventeen years later, LeAnn decided to share her knowledge gained through both experience and learning with students. She desires that her love of learning be contagious. Dr. Boyce has earned a MA in Government, MS in Information Science & Advanced Data Analytics, and a Ph.D. in Information Science.

About the Microcredential

Estimated Completion Time: 30 hours (5 hours per week; 6 weeks)

Workplace Writing Essentials empowers you to communicate effectively, efficiently, and persuasively through your written work. By enhancing your writing and communication skills, you will excel in your professional role and contribute to the overall success of your organization. Workplace Writing Essentials is presented by the UNT Department of Technical Communication's TACO Lab. 

Use our Workplace Writing Essentials: Employer Support Letter Template to assist in asking for your supervisor's support to enroll in the microcredential. 

For any questions, please email: microcredentials@unt.edu.

What You Will Learn

• Professional Writing Skills: Produce error-free documents.
• Building Goodwill in Communication: Craft respectful and empathetic messages.
• Audience Analysis: Tailor messages to specific audiences.

Microcredential Features

• Flexible Learning Format: This microcredential is delivered in an online asynchronous format, allowing learners to engage with the content at their own pace. This course is delivered on the Canvas platform. Please check the Canvas Technology Requirements.
• Multimedia Learning Materials: Short videos with embedded readings and audio narration provide an engaging and accessible environment for learning expert content. 
• Interactive Assessments: Learners have opportunities to demonstrate their understanding of the concepts through autograded and self-reflection exercises. Each lesson ends with a capstone project, and a UNT faculty member will provide personalized, directed, and implementable feedback on the capstone assignments to ensure learners develop and apply effective written communication skills.

Sample Content

Interested in learning more? These two videos provide a sneak peek into the microcredential.

About the Author

Erin Friess is a professor and the Director of the Tech Comm and Community Outreach (TACO) Research Lab in the Department of Technical Communication at the University of North Texas. She received her PhD in Rhetoric and her MA in Professional Writing from Carnegie Mellon University. Her research explores Scrum and agile project management, usability/user centered design,