Introducing Data Visualization to High School Students

In our era of unprecedented data generation, possessing proficiency in data visualization emerges as a crucial skill. The surge in computing and technological advancements underscores the necessity for students to grasp early-stage computer programming, equipping them with the tools to process and interpret information effectively. Recognizing the significance of hands-on learning experiences, supported by esteemed organizations like ACM and NIST, becomes pivotal in shaping the educational journey. At the forefront of data science, data visualization stands out as a cornerstone, especially within the realm of high school education. This paper strongly advocates for the seamless integration of Tableau, a powerful data visualization tool, into high school curricula to elevate students' analytical and visual comprehension skills. Through Tableau's inclusion in the computing curriculum, students not only acquire practical knowledge in exploratory data analytics (EDA) but also develop the ability to effectively represent data in diverse computing and machine learning stages. This encompasses crucial aspects such as data filtering, pattern identification, clustering, and classification. The comprehensive exploration within this paper spans the importance of data visualization in the educational landscape, elucidates the distinct advantages Tableau offers as an educational tool, delves into effective strategies for curriculum integration, scrutinizes the assessment of learning outcomes, addresses challenges, and puts forth valuable recommendations for educators. In doing so, the paper seeks to enhance the clarity of problem and goal statements while providing a rich contextual background to underscore the necessity and potential impact of Tableau's integration into high school education.