Programming Representations: Uncovering the Process of Constructing Data Visualizations in a Block-based Programming Environment

In this paper, we analyze how middle schoolers engaged in data visualization activities using PlayData, an educational tool designed to create representations for data by taking advantage of the flexibility and low entry point of block-based programming environments. Drawing on the analysis of artifacts and videos collected during a three-day workshop, we explore the types of visualizations created by participants and the process they engaged with to produce visualizations. Although the representational forms chosen by students were mainly traditional, our findings indicate that they were engaged in authentic data visualization practices throughout their programming process. These practices included translating ideas into programs, selecting parameters (such as color scheme and space between data points), inspecting the output, and adding annotations to provide context and better communicate the desired information. Moreover, our analysis pointed out opportunities for improving PlayData, mainly by the addition of new primitives for automating labeling and performing data transformations.