Visual Learning

Visual learning can be defined as the acquisition of knowledge or information through the use of imaged-based technologies such as the television or computer. Visual learning has continued to evolve in the last few decades with the increase of mass media and the availability of emerging technologies. Its accessibility has increased drastically as new developments in technology allow imaged-based technologies such as the computer and TV to become easily accessible by people around the world. Slowly, people have gravitated away from text-based communication to visual-based information. It is not surprising since research shows that the human brain can process visual information 60,000 times faster than text. Many educators argue that this has caused an intellectual decline to our culture due to the fact that less time is spent reading which, in return, reduces vocabulary. Educators agree that students in schools need to be taught about media literacy. Media literacy can prepare students to develop analytical and critical thinking skills to positively interact with all types of media.

Students nowadays spend numerous hours connected to the electronic world. As a result, teachers who integrate visual learning into their teaching are realizing that students are finding more relevance to what they are learning and their excitement is increasing. Visual learning is occurring in every classroom as technology in schools continues to increase and is becoming accessible to all. Teachers are incorporating visual learning through the use of visuals to strengthen communication and develop skills. Many believe educators have the primary responsibility to teach students to become media-literate members of society since young students are currently the most vulnerable to mass media’s marketing strategies. Young students are the future and for that reason schools need to invest time in preparing them to be able to critically analyze and evaluate image-rich media.