Visual Literacy

Visual Literacy

            This article discussed the missing element of visual literacy in technology courses. Often courses do not address visual elements including balance, fonts, word art, color, images and spacing. These elements can make a difference in the appearance of projects including webquests and PowerPoints.

            Prior to this semester I had never taken a formal technology class.  As I look at past projects, I neglected or didn’t address visual elements. While the projects were adequate, I now see the value of visual elements in the projects. My projects would have looked more professional if I had given attention to this area.

            As a teacher, I need to be aware of the skill of my students regarding their experience using visual elements. It might be an area of concern that I should address and model for the students. As educators, we prepare students for the world. Today’s child is living in a technology driven society. Education needs to include technology and extend beyond the basics. By addressing the visual elements, students will better understand all of the components that make a presentation great. After all, don’t we model the difference between a good paper and a great paper. Why wouldn’t we model the difference when presenting a visual technology assignment.

            Sosa, T. (2009, March). Visual Literacy: The Missing Piece of Your Technology Integration Course. TechTrends: Linking Research & Practice to Improve Learning, 53(2), 55-58. Retrieved March 23, 2009, doi:10.1007/s11528-009-0270-1