USE VISUALIZATION TOOLS

Numerous free, online tools allow teachers and students to visualize data from stored or uploaded datasets, or manipulate existing data visualizations. This page lists some of the most dynamic, user-friendly platforms available. For each platform, we have also provided a "minimal manual" which is a targeted, project-specific guide to help you use the tool for a social studies lesson or project.

ArcGIS StoryMaps

ArcGIS StoryMaps, by Esri, is a web-based platform for creating interactive, multimedia spatial narratives that blend maps, texts, images, videos, and data into engaging digital stories.

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CODAP

The Common Online Data Analysis Platform (CODAP) is a free, open-source, web-based app designed to encourage inquiry, exploration, and learning from data in any content area, including social studies.

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DV4L

Created in collaboration with social studies teachers, Data Visualization for Literacy (DV4L) supports social studies inquiry by allowing students to set driving questions and then create, edit, and compare graphs using large historical datasets.

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Data USA

DataUSA is a comprehensive website and visualization engine of public U.S. government data intended to help people understand and visualize critical issues facing the United States in areas like jobs, skills, and education across industry and geography.

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Gapminder

Gapminder, an independent Swedish foundation, uses data visualization tools and other resources to address people's common misconceptions about the world.

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