Journal 3- Inforgraphics: More than Words Can Say

 Krauss, J. (2012). Infographics: More than words can say. Learning & Leading with Technology, 39(5), 10-14. Retrieved from http://www.iste.org/learn/publications/learning-and-leading/February-2012.aspx

Summary:  The article defines infographics and explains how the visual representations of data engage different parts of the brain, allowing the learner to view the problem from a different prospective.  The mental processes that are involved with the creation of infographics have parallel patterns to computational thinking.  By creating infographics, students learn to analyze and represent data.  Infographics meet the standards because the NETS’ creativity and innovation indicators incorporate the creation of original works and models.  The article also provides guidelines to creating infographics.  It advises to tell the story for the presented information in a clear manner, using only data from reliable sources.

Question 1:  How can I use infographics as an educational tool?

I can create different infographics to portray information and the relation between different variables using charts, graphs, and other pictures.  Information that is displayed in a fun and colorful visual representation is more engaging, easier to understand, and the data is retained because it is not just boring text.

Question 2:  Why would infographics be an effective educational tool?

Each classroom has different types of learners and infographics are appealing to those who learn with visual pictures and those who learn with facts in a text.  It is important for educators to teach to each student based on their needs and learning styles, and inforgraphics helps educators do this.