Data Visualisation and Storytelling module (BU22013)

​Learn to source, clean, and visualise economic and business data using Excel and Power BI. Develop the skills to communicate data insights effectively to professional audiences

Credits
20
Module code
BU22013
Level
2
School
School of Business
Discipline
Economics

​​Data Visualisation and Storytelling will allow you to develop the end-to-end skills required to handle, analyse, and present economic and business data in professional and policy contexts. The module covers the full analytical workflow: understanding research design, sourcing and evaluating data, cleaning and transforming datasets, and selecting appropriate visualisation approaches to communicate insights clearly. 

​A key focus is on storytelling. Translating data into coherent, accessible narratives for non-technical audiences. You will develop hands-on experience with Excel and Power BI through weekly computer-lab workshops and explore the ethical implications of data use in an era of AI-generated and AI-influenced data. The module builds both individual analytical competence and collaborative professional skills through a mix of independent report writing and group presentation work. 

​What you will learn 

​In this module, you will learn: 

  • ​The principles of data visualisation and storytelling in economic and business contexts 
  • ​Research design for economic and business analysis, including how to frame an analytical question 
  • ​How to source, evaluate, clean, and transform datasets for visual analysis 
  • ​How AI affects data quality, interpretation, and reliability, and how to use data ethically 
  • ​How to create appropriate charts and dashboards using Excel and Power BI 
  • ​How to apply storytelling frameworks to communicate economic and business insights effectively 
  • ​How to produce written analytical reports supported by clear visuals 
  • ​How to collaborate in teams and deliver concise presentations to non-technical audiences 

​By the end of this module, you will be able to: 

  • ​Explain the principles of data visualisation and storytelling in economic and business contexts 
  • ​Understand research design, data sourcing, cleaning, and transformation 
  • ​Demonstrate knowledge of how AI affects data quality, interpretation, and reliability 
  • ​Source, clean, and transform datasets; create appropriate charts and dashboards using Excel and Power BI; and apply storytelling frameworks to communicate economic insights 
  • ​Work collaboratively using recognised teamwork and communication models, produce written analytical reports supported by visuals, and deliver effective presentations to non-technical audiences​

Assignments / assessments

​​Individual Written Report (50%)

  • ​Independent sourcing, preparation, and analysis of a dataset 
  • ​Clear data visualisations and a coherent analytical narrative 

​Group Presentation (50%)

  • ​Collaborative communication of visual insights to a non-technical audience 

​This module does not have a final exam.​

Teaching methods / timetable

  • ​​Lectures 
  • ​Computer-lab workshops 
  • ​Group work 

​The module is delivered through eight one-hour lectures and seven one-hour computer-lab workshops. Workshops use Excel and Power BI and provide scaffolded support for both the individual report and the group presentation.​

Module lead