Visual Literacy and the Internet

In the 21^st century, we live in a very visual and digital world, therefore incorporating visual literacy and the Internet in the classroom will only enhance the teaching and learning experience. Visuals provide students with a deeper understanding of the text. The Internet is a medium to find various real world images, as well as a plethora of information that will allow students to apply their previous knowledge to construct new understandings.

Currently, I implement a few visual literacy strategies in my classroom such as Power Point to present new information; K-W-L and flow charts to help students make connections and organize their thoughts; an assortment of graphs, as well as political and physical maps.  However, I would still like to explore student created web pages, interactive movies, and graphic novels.

In my classroom, I use the Internet as a teaching tool. It allows my students to explore beyond the classroom walls and provides resources that extend beyond me. Presently, we use the Internet to research information, view educational videos, and play interactive games. As a 21^st century teacher I am considering using the Internet to communicate, collaborate, and publish through email, web pages, and blogs. As I learn more about how to successfully implement these tools I am more than willing to try!

·         Check out this video, Learning in the Digital Age, that my classmates Jeffery Faerber, Stacy Marr, Nicole McGowan, Melissa Padgett, and I created about visual literacy.

If you are a teacher in the 21st century make sure you don't get left behind! Make sure that you are prepared to prepare your students for the 21st century!!!