BACKGROUND
In today’s data-driven world, effective data visualization and interactivity are essential for gaining meaningful insights from complex datasets.
This course will start by introducing ggplot2, a powerful R package for creating visually compelling and informative static data visualizations. Participants will learn the fundamentals of visualizing data in R, customizing plots, and best practices for creating clear and impactful charts.
Once participants are comfortable with ggplot2, the course will transition to
Shiny, a framework that allows users to build interactive, web-based applications directly from R. Through hands-on exercises, participants will learn how to integrate ggplot2 visualizations into Shiny apps, enhance user interactivity with dynamic inputs and outputs, and deploy their Shiny applications for sharing and collaboration.
By the end of the course, participants will have the skills to create visually engaging, interactive web applications using ggplot2 and Shiny, making data exploration more intuitive and impactful.
WORKSHOP GOAL
The workshop aims to achieve the following:
- Equip participants with the skills to create interactive web applications using Shiny and effective data visualizations with ggplot2.
- Teach participants how to design and develop dynamic dashboards with interactive features.
- Enable participants to integrate ggplot2 visualizations into Shiny applications for enhanced interactivity.
- Provide hands-on experience to confidently deploy Shiny applications for data exploration and communication.
WORKSHOP CONTENT
The workshop will cover the following topics:
- Data Visualization with ggplot2: Participants will learn how to create static, insightful visualizations using ggplot2 in R.
- Customizing Visualizations: Participants will apply best practices for customizing plots, such as themes, labels, and color schemes, to improve the effectiveness of visuals.
- Introduction to Shiny: Participants will understand the basics of Shiny and how to build interactive, web-based applications with R.
- Integrating ggplot2 into Shiny: Participants will learn how to embed ggplot2 visualizations into Shiny applications to create dynamic and user-friendly dashboards.
- Adding Interactivity and Deployment: Participants will gain experience in adding reactive inputs and outputs to Shiny apps, and learn how to deploy applications for easy sharing and collaboration.
TARGET AUDIENCE & PRIOR KNOWLEDGE
This workshop is designed for a broad interdisciplinary audience. It is ideal for learners who have a basic understanding of R programming and are comfortable with its core concepts, and are looking to expand their skills in building interactive web applications.
TECHNICAL REQUIREMENTS
- Participants are requested to bring their own laptop for the lab sessions and ensure that R and RStudio are installed. Additionally, participants should have an internet connection available to fully engage in the activities and access any necessary resources.
- Participants should have a fundamental understanding of data science and R programming, along with a strong interest in scripting and programming in R.
ABOUT THE TRAINER
Maryam Movahedifar is a data scientist for training and consulting at the DSC. She holds a PhD in Statistics and has extensive experience in Interpretable Machine Learning. With a strong foundation in statistical methods and practical experience in applying these techniques to real-world problems, she is well-equipped to teach complex machine learning concepts. Her expertise includes making advanced models understandable and accessible.