enhance litracy learning with visual learning

Studies show that when an area of a graphic is highlighted as it is being discussed, such as in a multimedia environment, viewers retain more information and are better able to transfer this information than those who did not view the highlighted visuals (Jamet, Gavota & Quaireau, 2008).

Even though eye movements are also controlled by the viewer’s expectations and search goals, there is evidence that signaling techniques to direct the eye are quite effective (Van Gog, 2014).įor example, signaling the viewer with arrows and color is known to be effective when used in explanatory and informational graphics. Visual cues work because they are prominent features that viewers pick up early in the perceptual process. They include explicit symbols (like arrows) and techniques (like highlights) that are overlaid onto a graphic to call attention to its critical features. Visual cues act as perceptual signals that control where viewers look. Their function is to orient, point out, or highlight crucial information. Visual cues do not carry the primary message. When you use visual cues for learning, you are more likely to control how someone perceives and interprets your graphic. Individuals may visually scan the same picture in unique ways depending on their goals and their previous experience. The most compelling and prominent features in the graphic compete for the viewer’s attention. To decipher a picture, a person’s attention shifts from one location to another in an attempt to find meaning in what they see. By purposefully directing the viewer’s eyes, you make it more likely that a person will pick up the most relevant information within this short time frame.Įye movements are critical for understanding a graphic. Unlike other forms of communication, such as reading, listening to music, or watching a movie, the time spent looking at a graphic is often remarkably brief. In multimedia learning, this is the signaling or cueing principle. It helps to ensure that people understand the intended message and it adds efficiency to the visual communication.

A person may dwell on the wrong information for an extended time or become overwhelmed with too much information, not knowing where to look.ĭirecting the eyes to the important message is one of the essential techniques of learning design.

Without purposefully using visual cues, you may unintentionally confuse your audience. When you design or create an informative graphic, do you help the viewer quickly understand it? Do you purposefully direct the viewers’ eyes to the elements that are most meaningful? This is important when you use visual cues for learning.

Enhance litracy learning with visual learning