Journal 3

Krauss Jane. (2012). Infographics: More than words can say. Learning & Leading, 39(5), 10-15. Retrieved from http://www.iste.org/learn/publications/learning-and-leading/February-2012.aspx

Summary: Students, when learning, use two distinctive parts of their brain; linguistic and non-linguistic. Infographics provides students the opportunity to engage both of these aspects. They allows students to take what they've learned, take it apart to find where the good information lies, and represent it visually. 70% of the sensory receptors are in the eyes. Teachers are encouraged to use infographics because it allows the children to take their data and tell a rich story with it. For instance, one class studied how accessible their city was to the residents. They took note of the sidewalks, bike lanes, their neighbors abilities, and other mobility challenges. They could then take their data and use infographics to represent it. Once their infographics are complete, they can come back together as a class and work on solutions to the accessibility issue. A good infographic has three components: it tells a story, it is clear to understand, and it uses good data. The article suggests that teachers pay attention to the infographics around them to learn more advantages and techniques in using them.

Q1: Are their ways to teach students infographics if computers aren't readily available?

I think so. Infographics are visual representations of data. While computers certainly aid in making infographics colorful and clear, students can learn to draw their own infographics or create their own by hand. This will teach students both visually and kinetically.

Q2: How can teachers ensure that children understand the usefulness of infographics?

 The best way for teachers to ensure their children understand how to use infographics is to keep them present in the classroom. If the students see them used throughout their lessons, they will realize how others see and use infographics. The constant practice of interpreting infographics will ensure that children understand the importance and function of present data practically and pleasingly.