| Despite the importance of visual analysis of graphed data in behavioral research, only sporadic studies have systematically examined the consistency in conclusions regarding data that are evaluated in this manner. Various studies have noted several characteristics within graphs that affect the final decisions of subject raters who view and judge such material. In addition, several authors have stated the importance of developing job aids for standardizing interpretations based on visual analysis. To date, however, no study has directly examined the process visual analysts employ as they come to their conclusions. Furthermore, no study has developed a job aid or training package based on information such a direct analysis would provide. The current research examined the behaviors of both advanced and novice visual analysts. Protocol and verbal behavior analysis were incorporated into a framework for revealing important factors related to evaluating data that is displayed graphically. |
