Digital Data Visualization with Interactive and Virtual Reality Tools. Review of Current State of the Art and Proposal of a Model

Abstract

Massive and open data constitute a burgeoning field of study in the current context. The evolution of technology is, in turn, increasing its degree of interactivity, configuring several scenarios of great complexity in which data is understood on the basis of our interaction with it at different levels. Technologies such as virtual reality or augmented reality present an emerging framework for visualizing, representing and understanding information. Moreover, new disciplines such as interaction design, human-computer interaction, and user experience are needed to optimally configure the representation and design of data interaction dynamics, so that they can be implemented in contexts such as education. This paper reviews the current state of interactive and immersive technology (including virtual reality and alternative reality games) and of open and massive data, to highlight potential projections and propose models of data representation based on factors such as storytelling or user experience. This paper shows the need to develop models for data use and representation in fields such as education and citizen empowerment.