Disciplinary Mapping of Data Analytics and Visualization in Urban Research
Principal Investigator:
Julia Nevarez
Abstract:
This presentation will illustrate the extent of the disciplinary relevance of data analytics and visualization in urban research by mapping a diverse array of disciplines related to data analytics and visualization in urban research. Traditional fields such as statistics, algorithms, mathematics, computer science, information technology, social sciences, environmental sciences, architecture, and urban studies, and emerging fields will also be included such as design and emerging technologies, vitalities lab, cultural analytics, critical data studies, and internet geography among other fields that at different scales, focus of study, and context address the study of contemporary technological and social issues.
Description of Research:
Situated within the overarching mission of the Center for Data Analytics and Visualization in Urban Research generously supported by a National Science Foundation grant under the Build and Broaden Program awarded to Kean University (2023-2026), the grant underscores a strategic focus on data analytics and visualization as pivotal components fostering cross-disciplinary research aimed at addressing pertinent urban challenges.
The conceptual framework of the grant is rooted in the advancement of data literacy and the democratization of data knowledge supported by cross-disciplinary research to mitigate the digital divide. Data literacy aims to prevent those who might remain digitally illiterate consequently digitally vulnerable to many cyber threats. At this historical junction characterized by ubiquitous data-driven urbanism facilitated by digital technologies, proficiency in data analytics and visualization emerges as indispensable skills of paramount importance in facilitating informed decision-making through data management processes pertaining but not limited to resource allocation, distribution of goods and services, and policy formulation within urban contexts.
Notably, the methodological underpinnings of data analytics and visualization intersect with myriad disciplines, mirroring the interdisciplinary character of urban research. The inherent complexity of urban dynamics and data analysis necessitates a nuanced comprehension of disciplinary convergence, encompassing conceptual and methodological dimensions. This presentation aims to elucidate these disciplinary connections by providing a tentative framework in a disciplinary mapping to underscore their relevance to these focal areas of study. By fostering conversations regarding the possibilities and limitations of research in these domains, this presentation seeks to advance cross-disciplinary dialogue to enhance our understanding of the complexity and dynamism inherent in contemporary urban societies and the methodologies used to grasp its meanings.
This presentation seeks to support the grant aims to build an ecosystem whereby faculty in the Social, Behavioral, and Economic Disciplines (SBE) and STEM disciplines at Kean University can leverage their discipline- specific knowledge and skill sets to engage in cross-disciplinary, collaborative, data-driven urban research. The project will augment existing efforts to develop a Center for Data Analytics and Visualization in Urban Research at Kean. Therefore, the presentation seeks to assist the already consolidated research teams supported by the grant (Cohort 1 2023-2025/ Faculty Fellows, Faculty Mentor, and Undergraduate Research Fellows, three teams, twelve participants) in locating and expanding their contributions to cross-disciplinary research.