WDS: Data Launchpads Collection

Data Launchpads are highly interactive documents built inside the Common Online Data Analysis Platform (CODAP) using the Story Builder plugin. Launchpads act as scaffolded “on-ramps” for students exploring complex public datasets. Each launchpad features built-in background information, multimedia context-setters, data activators, and guided tutorials on graphs, maps, and filtering.

Intended Audience & Use Case: Designed for middle and high school math, science, and social studies educators. They serve as guided classroom demonstrations or initial structured activities to help students build confidence in data analysis tools prior to self-directed inquiry.

Available Data Launchpads

• Yellowstone Cascade Launchpad
  An ecological launchpad focused on wildlife reintroduction and trophic cascades.
• CalEnviroScreen Data Launchpad
  An environmental justice launchpad analyzing socio-environmental pollution burdens across California communities.
• Aquatic Mountain Ecosystem of Emerald Lake Launchpad
  A limnology dataset investigating high-altitude mountain lake ecosystems and climate shifts.
• COVID-19 Dataset Launchpad
  A global epidemiological dataset tracking virus spread patterns and disparities.
• Spotify/Billboard Hot 100 Launchpad
  A cultural data set allowing students to filter and analyze decades of popular music trends.

Associated Publications Learn more about the Story Builder plugin in: Wilkerson, M. H., Finzer, W., Erickson, T., & Hernandez, D. (2021). Reflective Data Storytelling for Youth: The CODAP Story Builder. Proceedings of Interaction Design and Children, 503–507. https://doi.org/10.1145/3459990.3465177