10/19/2015 Using Graphics To Improve Learning

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Using Graphics To Improve Learningby Connie Malamed

Although no one can say that visuals are always superior to words, the principle known as the picturesuperiority effectshould convince you that using effective visuals will improve learning. The principle statesthat people generally have a better memory for pictures than for corresponding words.

Research in many areas of learning, such as recognition, recall, comprehension and problem­solvingpoint to the fact that visuals enhance learning in many situations. Considering how pictures are widelyused in advertising and marketing communications, this shouldn’t be shocking news. As designers and

developers, we need to focus more on the superiority of visuals and use them strategically. Here are some ways you can use pictures tofacilitate learning.

Narratives­Scenarios­StoriesWhen you’re using a storyline to relate a scenario, use still photos to add emotional depth and to ensure theaudience gets the message. Surprisingly, a voice over can work well with still photos if you don’t have the budgetfor video. Ideally, you can pan the photo (move horizontally across it) or zoom in or out of the photo to add asense of action.

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10/19/2015 Using Graphics To Improve Learning

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Abstract ConceptsDiagrams and graphs can help learners comprehend abstract concepts using visual language to depict meaning.For example, in diagrams the connecting lines between elements help learners understand relationships. Bargraphs make it easy to compare data; line graphs help learners understand trends. So, concretize abstractinformation with a corresponding visual when possible.

Parts and ComponentsUse labeled illustrations when learners need to understand specific parts of something. This isparticularly useful when there are many components or when the parts are microscopic, hidden orinvisible.

Motion and PathsVisuals are a potent way to show the movement of one or more entities. You can depict motion along a line,as in this graphic that shows the path of Hurricane Katrina. You can also depict motion with arrows, such asshowing the moving parts of a machine.

Geography and Statistical DataMaps are ideal for helping learners understand location and geography, but they can be used for more than these purposes. Statisticalmaps represent variations in quantity of a particular factor, such as population, crime rates, cell phone use or political affiliations.

10/19/2015 Using Graphics To Improve Learning

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Learners quickly perceive and understand map information because it is a commonly used visual format.

Concrete IdeasPerhaps the most obvious use of visuals is to show a concrete and familiar object. Whenlearners are familiar with the items in a photograph or illustration, it may not facilitatelearning, but pictures provide an aesthetic appeal that can serve to motivate them. Becognizant of the fact that if “eye candy” is extravagant, it could detract from the learningevent.

MetaphorsInstructional designers like to use metaphors to explain something unfamiliar by comparing it with a familiar object oridea. Metaphors offer an excellent opportunity for using visuals, because they work well as mnemonic devices—helping learners to remember new information.

If you’re interested in how people understand graphics, check out my book, Visual Language For Designers.