Empathy Through Data
Loneliness through the lens of data visualization
Sananda Dutta
Project Description
The project examines strategies aimed at fostering empathy through data visualizations. Loneliness experienced during the current pandemic is used as a case study to explore alternate ways of representing data. Along with ways to humanize data representation and curb Statistical numbing, this research uses metaphors to encode sensitive data to help visually represent people suffering loneliness in Ontario during the first wave of the COVID pandemic. The research amalgamates ‘affect theory’ with concepts of ‘arithmetic of emotions’ and ‘compassion fade’ to try and create a solution for issues related to the ways in which we respond to sensitive issues. By employing the mixed methods of research for creation and iterative design development, this project comprises: 1) a written document stating the research process; 2) a series of iterations leading to a data visualization for the first wave of the pandemic and 3) a multi-sensory web-based data story.
BIO
Sananda Dutta is a user experience and interface designer by day and a digital illustrator by night. She is focused on creating meaningful experiences through design. Her interests lie in designing for digital experiences, creating human-centred interactions and learning about emerging technologies. She also loves to dabble with generative art, music and information design. She holds a bachelor’s in design, specializing in Graphic design from the National Institute of Design, India. She is currently pursuing a master’s in design with a specialization in Digital Futures from OCAD University.