In this tutorial, I will show you how to use Social Explorer, a web-based tool for visualizing and interacting with demographic data. With this tool, you can explore different demographic datasets overlayed onto an interactive map of the United States. This can allow the user to gather data for specific states and counties. For my final project, Social Explorer was used to gather data regarding the poverty level of Carleton Students’ hometowns. In the context of the Digital Arts and Humanities, I can see this being a useful visualization tool for mapping projects.
Step 1: Step 1 is to access https://www.socialexplorer.com/explore-maps. On the website, you will be presented with multiple maps to select. We will proceed by selecting the United States map.
Step 2: This will take you to the interactive map of the United States. By default the dataset is Population Density per Sq. Mile, however, we will want to change this. Next, we will select the “Change data” button in the top left.
Step 3: You will then be prompted to choose a dataset, which is sorted into different categories and years. However, there is also a search function that we can take advantage of. I typed in “Poverty” and selected the “Poverty Status in the Past 12 Months by Age” dataset.
Step 4: Once we select the dataset, sometimes it doesn’t autofill into the map. To fix this, we select the “AUTO ADJUST” button in the bottom right of the screen.
Step 5: We now have a visualization of the dataset on the map! You can get information for individual states and counties by zooming in on the map and hovering over the region of interest with your cursor.
Further Resources:
Here is a link to training modules that can help you learn to use Social Explorer: https://www.socialexplorer.com/teach-and-learn/training-modules
Here is a link where you can ask specific questions about Social Explorer: https://www.socialexplorer.com/help/
6 thoughts on “Tutorial Week 9: Social Explorer”
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This is super helpful! Social Explorer seems like a great tool for clearly visualizing demographic data, especially when trying to communicate complex information visually. I appreciate how you walked through each step clearly—I could easily follow along and replicate your process.
Hi there! Your tutorial was very clear and easy to follow. I didn’t know a tool like this existed- I always just assumed you had to gather your own data and create visualizations yourself. How did you come across this website? Also, I wonder how you can ensure the validity of the inputted data since you’re not the one putting it in.
Very nice tutorial! This isn’t a site that I have heard of before. Not only is it valuable to get started using the software but also servers to promote the site so students such as my self. I would be interesting in checking out how many datasets are available by default on this site as well as the process to upload your own datasets (If possible).
I really like how thorough your tutorial is. I knew tools like these existed, but I had never used them before. I think this is a useful tool for DGAH. With Social explorer it is really easy to visualize and understand complex data.
This is a really good tutorial! You exemplify how easy it is to not only use social explorer, but how useful it is to digital humanities. Maps can be an excellent tool in argumentation and expressing different issues across the world. I have never used or heard of Social Explorer before this so thank you for the guide!
This tutorial on Social Explorer is a great way to get started with mapping and visualizing demographic data. It’s super easy to follow, even if you’re new to it. This tool is perfect for digital humanities projects, helping make complex data easier to understand and share with others. Definitely a helpful resource!