Visual Principles
“The Computer as an Educational Tool:
Productivity and Problem Solving”
©Richard C. Forcier and
Don E. Descy
Why are visual principles
important?
• We live in a visual society.
• Most students are visual
learners.
• 80% is learned from what one
sees.
• 50% of what one sees AND
hears is remembered.
Functions of Visuals
• Concrete communication device to
refer to
• Motivate learners by increasing
interest
• Reiteration—underscore verbal or
printed information by presenting it
in a different form
• Simplification
Three Types of Visuals
• Realistic
• Shows actual subject being
studied
• Analogical
• Conveys a concept by comparing it
• Organizational
• Shows relationships within text
Using Visuals in Instruction
• Decoding - read and interpret
• Students under 12 see visuals
section-by-section.
• Cultural differences affect the
perception of the visual used.
Using Visuals in
Instruction (Continued)
• Encoding - communicating
through visuals
• The ability to arrange visuals in
a logical order affects one’s
verbal literacy.
• Encourage students to use
visual media in assignments
Visual Literacy
• One’s ability to interpret and
communicate visual messages
• Visual literacy crucial and
parallel to reading and writing
literacy
Designing Visuals
• Elements of art and design
should always be considered.
• Make a basic sketch of design to
plan overall structure, then add
details
Line
• Directs the eye around or to an
area
• Suggests action and movement
• Divides or combines concepts
Line (Continued)
• Horizontal
• Stability
• Vertical
• Strength
• Diagonal
• Movement
Shape
• A shape is a line closed upon
itself.
• Interacting shapes add interest.
• Repetition
• Simple
Texture
• Texture conveys a clearer, 3-D
idea of the subject.
• May be actual or implied
• Adds interest with interaction
• Should be used in moderation
Color
• Commands attention
• Adds impact
• Local color
• Heightens realism
• Expressive color
• Adds emotion
How Color Works
• Warm colors approach.
• Red helps memory.
• Yellow is seen first.
• Cool colors recede.
• Blue is viewed as of lesser
importance.
Arrangement
• Underlying shapes unify.
• Lines move the eye along.
• Color and texture highlight and
elaborate.
• Use balance, repetition, AND
movement to achieve unity.
• Keep it simple!