Course Visualization

Prof. Dr. Bernd Fröhlich
M.Sc. Dora Kiesel
M.Sc. Irene López García
M.Sc. Gareth Rendle

The first part of this course presents fundamental and advanced information visualization techniques for multi-dimensional and hierarchical data, graphs, time-series data and set-based data. During the second part, algorithms and models for visualization of volumetric and vector-based data as well as corresponding out-of-core and level-of-detail techniques for handling very large datasets are introduced. This course will be taught in English.

Lab classes focus on implementing, testing and evaluating the visualization approaches presented during the lectures. There are in total 7 biweekly lab assignments which must be done in pairs, followed by individual quizzes to be done after submission. In addition, you are required to complete the final lab class assignment at the end of the semester. The final lab class assignment allows you to form teams of 2 students where you design, implement, evaluate and present your own visualization project.

Programming skills, as well as a good grasp of algorithms and data structures, are required, and can be proven through successful completion of the corresponding courses from, for example, the Medieninformatik Bachelor programme. Javascript and GLSL programming languages will be used in the lab classes. Basic computer graphics knowledge is helpful, e.g. from taking the computer graphics course from the Medieninformatik Bachelor programme.

The course comprises of lab class assignments and brief written tests throughout the semester, as well as an oral or written exam at the end of the semester and a final lab class assignment.

• Moodle course page (for enrollment in the course)
  • Link
• Lecture
  • Thursdays, 13:30 - 15:00 Uhr (B11 - Seminar room H)
  • First lecture: 3rd April 2025
• mandatory lab class, divided in two groups:
  • Fridays, 13:30 - 15:00, starting 4th April 2025 (B11 - Pool G)
  • Mondays, 09:15 - 10.45, starting 7th April 2025 (B11 - Pool G)
  • Please choose one group, and enrol through Moodle
• written exam
  • September 2025

The final lab class assignment of the Visualization course requires the participants to apply the theoretical and practical skills obtained during the course to the design, implementation, and presentation of a small stand-alone research project. It is your task to select a problem, develop a solution, come up with an effective and efficient implementation, and present your results in a concise talk. This is an invaluable opportunity to work on an interesting topic of your choice in the field of visualization.

Students should coordinate with the lab class instructors when selecting a topic. Student projects are graded based on a presentation to the instructors and the other students at the end of the semester. Each group must present their working system, along with a few overview slides describing their idea and approach to the topic. Teams of two can work together in the final lab class assignment.