There are two categories of representations: figurative and non-figurative. Within the category of figurative representations, there are two groups: visuals and graphic symbols. Graphic symbols include pictorial symbols, abstract symbols, and arbitrary symbols. Symbols can be used for identification, overview, supplying instructions, position,…

The role of video as a foreign language textbook of the future is discussed. The flexibility of the video format accommodates a wide variety of learning style characteristics. It is maintained that the ideal textbook: (1) empowers the teacher by matching the teacher's objectives, by being under the teacher's control, by condensing time, by…

Traces the changes in the visuals used in U.S. history textbooks since the 1900s, concentrating on contemporary texts. Provides questions educators can use in assessing the educational value of textbook visuals. Critiques current textbook visuals, and suggests ways that they enhance understanding of educational information. (RW)

Discusses links between visual literacy and print literacy in the following areas: graphic organizers; propaganda; video technologies; computer use; and children's drawing and writing. Describes a semiotic-theory model, depicting relationships among not only linguistic signs and visual signs, but other signs (musical, gestural, etc.) in…

To be part of instructional development, library media specialists (LMS) must work with teachers using a variety of resources which teach viewing, listening, reading, and critical thinking skills. The following models for teacher/LMS integration are discussed: Loertcsher's taxonomy; the TIE (talking, involving, evaluating) model; and the Toor and…

This paper discusses research findings regarding vocabulary instruction and reading comprehension and suggests methods to develop vocabulary using visual aids. As indicated by the research, vocabulary instruction is necessary and can lead to improved comprehension; there also appears to be a strong need to relate concrete visual experiences to…

Although many students simply do not visualize or draw very well, most students have capabilities and potentials that they, and perhaps their professors, are overlooking. Once elementary representations are mastered, it may be that drawing becomes progressively less of a learning tool as one moves through the educational system. But there is…

Graphic design is a form of communication by which visual messages are conveyed to a viewer. Audience needs and views must steer the design process when constructing public service visual messages. Well-educated people may be better able to comprehend visuals which require some level of interpretation or extend beyond their world view. Public…

Computer-based instruction (CBI) has undergone tremendous changes in the past decade. This paper focuses on the following three areas of designing information presentation: (1) screen design literature is dated, and the existing guidelines do not allow for advances in computer technology; (2) open-ended guidelines may offer designers sufficient…

Part of a major project of the Council for Cultural Cooperation, the project described was specifically designed to identify the aims of, the main approaches to, and problems encountered when teaching secondary school students how to use mass media, and to make proposals on how mass media education can be effectively delivered. Following a brief…

The Test of Visual Perceptual Abilities and the Test of Spatial Perception in Sign Language were developed and administered to 682 hearing-impaired students, aged 8-18. Results showed that a significant relationship exists between visual perceptual abilities and the ability to comprehend the essential spatial components of sign language.…

A practical solution to many of the communication obstacles found in international markets can be found in the development and widespread adoption of a standardized system of international graphic symbols. Any plan to develop and implement a truly acceptable and universal system of graphic symbols will have to overcome many obstacles that past…

A project on videodisc technology sponsored by the Illinois State Board of Education has captured classroom teachers teaching in their own classrooms to their own students. By digitizing this video instruction onto videodiscs preservice teachers and instructors have a visual learning tool that provides instant access to a variety of pedagogical…

Although substantial literature exists regarding learning with visuals, most consider text the primary channel with varying amounts of visuals explored as a secondary channel. This study considered the effectiveness of visuals-only procedural guides versus visuals plus added text, using visuals as the primary channel and using visuals developed…

Understanding how they learn best is important for beginning and returning college students. This self-awareness can assist students in developing their classroom learning, study skills, and instructional habits throughout their college careers. For this reason, a quick, inexpensive learning style inventory appropriate for college populations was…