Lesson 1
The importance of visuals
This week we will take a look at WHY we need visuals included in our learning and instruction. You will develop your own thoughts about why visuals are needed based on the content you will review below.
Read the below selections and watch the videos to discover what makes visuals important in learning. After reviewing the below content, post in the discussion (comments section at the bottom of the page) your thoughts on visuals in learning, and reply to at least 2 other posts.
Don't forget to take the Pre-Assessment before you get started!
WATCH
WATCH
While the below video discusses visual communication from a commercial marketing standpoint, the content is still applicable to learning. This is a great video introduction of color and design theory as well as visual storytelling and how images can convey emotion. Watch this video with an open mind and keep an eye out for tips you can implement in your instructional design.
Summary
In conclusion, visuals are a vital part of conveying information, content, stories, emotion, or learning to humans. Visuals are not the only component of learning, and visual learning is not the only learning style, but it does convey information quickly and efficiently. Humans are designed to interpret images quickly and gain understanding based on what we see.
Because adults vary in learning style, many different methods of conveying the content should be used. Visual communication is part of a larger overarching plan to facilitate learning. Visuals should be included to draw attention, stir emotions, and reinforce the verbal communication of the lesson. Good visuals, as part of your instructional design, should not even be noticed because the learning is taking place! They are not taking over or stealing the spotlight, but integrated in such a way that they reinforce the concept without the perception of "oh, that's a visual!" They are simply integrated and learning takes place.
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Don't forget to post in the discussion below!
DISCUSS
Participate in the discussion below. Post your own thoughts about why you think visuals are important and reply to at least two other posts from your classmates.