Isabel Meirelles

Bio: Isabel Meirelles is an academic researcher from Northeastern University. The author has contributed to research in topics: The arts & Information visualization. The author has an hindex of 4, co-authored 16 publications receiving 146 citations. Previous affiliations of Isabel Meirelles include Leonardo & OCAD University.

Visualizing Computational Social Science The Multiple Lives of a Complex Image

Abstract: Parallel advances in communication and visualization technologies have enabled the study and visualization of human behavior at a scale and level of detail never before possible. Nowhere are these advances more evident than within the emerging field of computational social science. Using Adamic and Glance’s image of the political blogosphere as an example and social representations theory as a guiding framework, we explore how computational social science visualizations may aid and complicate public understanding of this new science. We conclude with a discussion of best practices for the production and reuse of computational social science images for public consumption.

Visualizing data: New pedagogical challenges

Abstract: The paper examines the burgeoning practice of visualizing data. It begins with a brief overview of this broad field and the nature of the practice throughout history. The focus is on computational interactive visualizations and the ways in which technology has given way to an expansive and expanding practice mainly centered on current issues. Information visualizations are ubiquitous and critically important to understanding several fields today, covering a wide range of content and functionality: from scientific visualizations to visual explanations of socio-political events. Technology has affected the practice in several ways, from graphical methods to the agents involved with such complex data representations: the authors and users of these applications. Selected graphical tools are examined as a means to identify recent trends. The paper concludes with questioning the ways in which we are (or not) preparing design students to tackle these new information communication challenges. The goal is to discuss —and ultimately suggest— the relevance of integrating theoretical, visual and technical aspects of structuring and representing large amounts of data into design undergraduate education.

Quantitative, Qualitative, and Historical Urban Data Visualization Tools for Professionals and Stakeholders

Abstract: Existing technologies for transportation planning, urban design, and decision-making have not kept pace with rapid urbanization. Visualization and analysis tools can help by combining qualitative, quantitative, and historical urban data – helping experts understand the system of systems of the modern city. Incorporating insights from experts in several relevant fields, we have derived a performance specification for visualization tools supporting general transportation planning problems . We examine two existing technologies against the specification – Betaville and StoryFacets – and recommend adapting them as first-generation urban system analysis/planning support tools. We also suggest guidelines for the next generation of tools for transportation planning.

Arts, Humanities and Complex Networks

Abstract: This ongoing series of special sections highlights a diversity of research contributions revolving around networks in culture, networks in art, networks in the humanities, art about networks, and research in network visualization. These five topical attractors have emerged from our ongoing symposia and over 50 published contributions. Continuing our mission to foster multidisciplinary research on complex systems within or with the help of arts and humanities, we aim to support our flourishing community.

Quantifying reputation and success in art

Abstract: In areas of human activity where performance is difficult to quantify in an objective fashion, reputation and networks of influence play a key role in determining access to resources and rewards. To understand the role of these factors, we reconstructed the exhibition history of half a million artists, mapping out the coexhibition network that captures the movement of art between institutions. Centrality within this network captured institutional prestige, allowing us to explore the career trajectory of individual artists in terms of access to coveted institutions. Early access to prestigious central institutions offered life-long access to high-prestige venues and reduced dropout rate. By contrast, starting at the network periphery resulted in a high dropout rate, limiting access to central institutions. A Markov model predicts the career trajectory of individual artists and documents the strong path and history dependence of valuation in art.

浅议社会表象理论（Social Representation Theory）在旅游学研究中的应用

Abstract: 旅游作为一门跨多个学科领域的应用科学,其学科发展往往会涉及社会学、心理学、人类学、地理学等各相关学科的研究成果.而目前旅游学研究中具体实证研究有余而基础理论工作相对不足的局面已经阻碍了旅游学作为一个学科体系的确立、完善和向前发展.本文试对社会心理学中新兴的"社会表象理论"(Social Representation Theory)以及近年来国外学术界将该理论引入旅游学研究的基本情况作一个简单的介绍,以期能够为国内旅游学界的相关研究工作起到一点参考作用.

Data Visualization in Scandinavian Newsrooms: Emerging Trends in Journalistic Visualization Practices

Abstract: The visualization of numeric data is becoming an important element in journalism. In this article, we present an interview study investigating data visualization practices in Scandinavian newsrooms. Editorial leaders, data journalists, developers and graphic designers in 10 major news organizations in Norway, Sweden and Denmark provide information for the study on a range of issues concerning visualization practices and experiences. The emergence of multi-skilled specialist groups as well as innovation in technology and the ‘mobile first mantra’ are identified as important factors in the fast-developing practices of journalistic data visualization. Elements of tension and negotiation are revealed for issues concerning the role and effect of complex exploratory data visualizations and concerning the role of ordinary journalists in the production of charts and graphs.