Not too long ago I was asking myself, “What in the world is an infographic?” Graphic design has taken over the world we live in. Our students no longer absorb information and learn the same way we do. In fact, I no longer learn the same way I used to. Inundated with graphics, we take in and process information differently. Education needs to adapt to the learning style of the students within our classrooms.
By creating lessons that will pique interest and encourage the engagement of students, we all win. Incorporating graphics into an old lesson, students are more in tune to content. Designing learning experiences that put the power of creation in the hands of our students is where the real learning happens. With endless options, students take the reigns to show off all they have learned, thus solidifying their understanding and helping others learn as well.
One example applicable to any content area is vocabulary development. Capitalizing on the power of graphics, students can further develop their understanding of content area vocabulary. Using Keynote and the amazing shapes, image, and audio tools available, students can design a slide for each vocabulary word and use graphics, images, and audio to display their understanding of content-specific terminology.
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| Example of one in a set of student-created infographics describing the attributes of quadrilaterals. |
Student created graphics can be used as a study tool and shared via Seesaw for parents and peers to view and provide feedback. Students love using their creativity to find real-world examples. They take advantage of the shapes tools and the photo mark-up editing tool to create a personalized vocabulary graphic.
You're so right, Lorene! We absolutely learn differently than in the past and graphics play a really large role in that shift! I find myself scanning texts for a graphic that can help summarize or break down the information presented in the text. Graphics are much more engaging than text alone. I really liked your idea of using graphics in the classroom to help support vocabulary development. Have you tried Pear Deck Flashcard Factory yet? It is a way for students to create their own flashcards for any vocabulary list and they have to draw visual representations of the words and also use the word in a sentence or give an example. The flashcards then get exported to a Quizlet deck for students to practice with. It's very cool and the kids love it! :)
ReplyDeleteTotally agree, Lorene! I feel like I wrote something incredibly similar and, of course, made it applicable to math. :) We're actually currently studying geometry as well. I love your graphic of finding these shapes in real life and identifying their attributes! It would be great to do this in a GoFormative! and see all the different ways students could break up the same shape and everything they have to add.
ReplyDeleteNicely stated, Lorene! I too have the students use their own graphics in math class as well. I feel when the kids create their own graphics to bring concepts to life, it truly solidifies the skill.
ReplyDeleteI love when you mentioned that our students no longer absorb information and learn the same way we do. It is so important to continue to grow with our students to make sure we are teaching to the learners! I really liked your real-world math examples, and the graphics the students used to help them study.
ReplyDeleteI love the idea of using graphics to study vocabulary. I think that has some really cool applications I could use in my Spanish class. Thanks for the idea!
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