Spencer Barnes teaches coursework in graphic design, information design, and 3D animation and VFX for visual explanations. Barnes’ research explores the synthesis of cognitive psychology, information design and visualization with respect to data journalism and journalism education. It is concerned with the design, application, efficacy and implications of data-driven graphics and the communicative roles that such information displays play in journalism and mass communication. Before coming to the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Barnes taught automotive design and computer-aided design coursework at the NC State College of Design. He has published research on design education, engineering education, and the effective uses and applications of computer-aided design technology. 

 He is a member of the Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi.