Practical Assessment Strategies Series (PASS)

Each workshop will have a MAX of 15 registrants to allow for constructive discussions, questions, and opinions. So register soon!

Bringing Data Stories to Life with Visualizations
Ryan Smith, Director of University Assessment
Illinois State University

March 5, 2025
3pm-4:40pm ET / 2am-3:40pm CT / 1pm-2:40pm MT / 12pm-1:40pm PT

Description: Building on the storytelling framework from Part 1, this session will focus on translating a data narrative into a visualization. Participants will be introduced to principles of visualization, types of visualizations, and finally a demonstration. Next, participants will collaboratively engage with sample visualizations and work together to craft a story from the data. Finally, participants will sketch their own data visualization based on a given narrative, reinforcing the connection between data, visuals, and storytelling.

A separate previous session covers crafting a data narrative. This workshop stands alone and does not require attendance at Part 1. Participants are welcome to attend either or both sessions. 

Speaker Bio: Ryan Smith is the director of university assessment at Illinois State University. Ryan has presented and administered many workshops on data storytelling in higher education. Ryan focused on how storytelling can address the problems of data overload, audience engagement, and advocacy. He holds a PhD in Education from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. MSE in Education from Drake University, and BA in Art History from the University of Missouri-Columbia. Ryan has over 25 years of experience in higher education assessment, institutional research, and planning.

Part of the AALHE Professional Development Series

January’s Practical Assessment Strategies Series (PASS) featured several sessions led by industry experts, offering valuable insights and practical skills. The Professional Development Committee is excited to announce six follow-up workshops to PASS, aimed at further enhancing your professional toolkit. These workshops will guide participants in using new tools to improve efficiency and enhance assessment techniques. Don’t miss this opportunity to expand your professional capabilities and stay ahead in the field of assessment. Register now and take the next step in your professional development journey!