Presenting information in both text and
graphical format helps people to learn more effectively. It makes material
look more attractive, increasing learners' motivation and helping to explain
a subject more clearly than text.
Here are some guidelines for using graphics:
- Use graphs, maps, charts, diagrams and tables to illustrate quantifiable subjects.
- Think of showing physical objects that can represent non-physical concepts.
- People remember physical objects better.
- Break down complex information using graphics.
However, when designing e-learning, remember accessibility issues. Do not rely on a graphic alone to convey important information. Use 'Alt' tags to describe the graphic and make sure that accessible text describes the content of the graphic.
Do not use graphics just to 'brighten things up'. Irrelevant graphics distract a learner's attention from the important content.
Some examples
Look at these examples.
| This diagram accompanies text explaining how carbon
dioxide levels in the atmosphere have risen over the last hundred years.
The rapid climb of the line shows this more dramatically than could be
done by text alone. |
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| A graphical flowchart incorporating such things as clip art helps to summarise the complexities of an administrative process. |  |
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(C) Bryan Hopkins, 2005