•  Understanding Dashboards• 5

Graphic Literacy Level 04

Key Elements of a Dashboard:

Dashboards are designed to present key data in a clear and visually engaging way. Here are some common elements found in most dashboards:

1. Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) – Displays critical metrics that help users track performance at a glance.

2. Charts & Graphs – Visual representations of data trends, comparisons, and distributions.

3. Tables & Lists – Organized data sets for detailed analysis and structured reporting.

4. Filters & Controls – Interactive elements that allow users to refine data views based on specific criteria.

5. Real-Time Data Updates – Ensures that displayed information is current and dynamically refreshed.

6. Alerts & Notifications – Highlights important changes, warnings, or actionable insights.

7. Navigation & Menus – Provides easy access to different sections or reports within the dashboard.

8. Comparative Metrics – Displays historical data alongside current figures for trend analysis.

9. Customizable Widgets – Allows users to personalize their dashboard layout and focus on relevant data.

10. Export & Sharing Options – Enables users to download reports or share insights with stakeholders.

For a deeper dive into dashboard design and best practices, check out this guide or explore different dashboard examples. 

Here are some engaging hands-on activities for adult learners to practice Understanding Dashboards, along with a materials list:

Hands-On Activities

1. Dashboard Scavenger Hunt
   
   

   • Activity: Participants explore a sample dashboard and locate key metrics, trends, and alerts.

   • Materials:

     • Sample dashboards (printed or digital).

     • Pens and highlighters.

2. Data Interpretation Challenge
   
   

   • Activity: Participants analyze dashboard visuals (charts, graphs, KPIs) and answer questions about trends and insights.

   • Materials:

     • Business case study worksheets.

     • Sample dashboard screenshots.

3. Create Your Own Dashboard
   
   

   • Activity: Participants design a simple dashboard using provided data sets, organizing key metrics for easy interpretation.

   • Materials:

     • Spreadsheet software (Excel, Google Sheets).

     • Graphing tools.

4. Interactive Dashboard Sorting
   
   

   • Activity: Participants categorize different types of dashboard elements (tables, graphs, alerts) based on their function.

   • Materials:

     • Printed dashboard components.

     • Sorting trays.

5. Real-World Application Scenarios
   
   

   • Activity: Participants analyze workplace dashboards, such as sales reports or performance tracking tools, to extract meaningful insights.

   • Materials:

     • Sample workplace documents.

     • Calculators and pens.

Explore more workplace literacy strategies here and additional interactive teaching methods here.

Materials List

• Paper: Graph paper, plain sheets, worksheets.

• Writing Tools: Pens, pencils, markers, highlighters.

• Calculators: Basic and scientific calculators.

• Scenario Cards: Pre-written real-life dashboard interpretation problems.

• Sorting Trays: For organizing different types of dashboard elements.

• Business Reports and Dashboards: Printable worksheets for workplace applications.

• Graphing Tools: Rulers, spreadsheet software, graph paper.

These activities make understanding dashboards practical and engaging in workplace scenarios.