Switch from matplotlib to Seaborn

[brianspiering]

Currently, we are using matplotlib. I suggest we switch to Seaborn.

Here are the top reasons:

1. API is simpler. Seaborn requires less code and has more intuitive keywords arguments.
2. Seaborn is designed for statistical plotting. matplotlib is general data use.
3. Seaborn has more attractive plots. They are more modern in style.

Thoughts?

[KevinRPan]

I agree that we should switch away from matplotlib and be consistent. As an R user, I have preferred ggplot for the exact same reasons. If there is an argument that Seaborn is more Pythonic or better otherwise, I would not be opposed.

[go-bears]

I was actually recommending to students at USF to play with Seaborn after using matplotlib. But I will play devil's advocate here, matplotlib is the go-to library for academics and technical plots, and it remains very handy for visualizing images inline for a deep learning. Seaborn is pretty sugar on top of the matplotlib; are we doing students a favor by shielding them from the complexities that matplotlib invites? Or is it better for them in the long run for students to be supported by instructors as they master the library?

[jackalack]

@go-bears you raise valid concerns. My only thought is that we are introducing students to a lot of new material, and we want to simplify the process as much as possible so that they can focus on learning the core concepts.

[go-bears]

sounds great! 👌