Integrative Visualization: Exploring Data Collected in Collaborative Learning Contexts

Abstract

The development and use of computational approaches to make sense of data collected in collaborative learning contexts is expanding rapidly in the Computer-Supported Collaborative Learning (CSCL) and Learning Sciences (LS) communities. However, developing and using these approaches in ways that maintain a commitment to theory and situational context is a significant challenge. This paper proposes integrative visualization, a computationally assisted, human-centered process to visually explore data collected in collaborative learning contexts in a way that maintains a commitment to theory and situational context. To do so, this paper summarizes how integrative visualization supported the development and use of interaction geography, an approach to describing, representing, and interpreting collaborative interaction across the physical environment. This paper concludes by emphasizing the need to further develop integrative visualization in the CSCL and LS communities through stronger connections with the information visualization community.