Reflection on Visual Literacy Creation

Andrea Edbauer
November 5, 2014

What is it and under what conditions was it created?

This assignment was completed as part of the Literacy 763 course. After studying visual literacy,
I had to create a lesson plan or unit that included visual literacy ideas.

Why did you select it for this section?

My visual literacy creation helped me become a stronger Skillful Practitioner, because I created
this lesson based on the needs and interests of the students in my classroom. I added an
updated component (in blue), because I am developing a stronger understanding of the
importance of addressing student culture and learning characteristics. I incorporated new
technology into the lesson (Padlet), which can lead to higher motivation and engagement. The
lesson offers inquiry-based learning, where students are working together to draw conclusions.
During this lesson, students have to construct their own meaning, based on historical images.

Growth and change?

This assignment helped me realize how important it is for students to gain understanding from
images alone, versus always gaining knowledge from text. This can be very powerful in many
areas of the curriculum, especially history. Instead of telling students about a picture, it is more
meaningful for them to come to their own conclusions. This lesson allows students to not only
construct their own meaning and make inferences, but to also revisit their first impressions,
and correct any misconceptions they may have had. This is more powerful than the teacher
telling them, “Actually, this pictures shows…”

My next step with this particular project is to implement it in my classroom during our Life Long
Ago and Today unit. I would also like to incorporate more visual literacy into the curriculum. It
is a great way to slow down, observe, and discuss pictures and other visual representations. I
would also like to have students create their own visual literacy creations. My district just
purchased a subscription for all students to the website Big Universe. The site contains a writing
component, where children could create their own poster or image that represents their
understanding of a concept or skill.

May 5, 2019
While revisiting this assignment and reflection, I added a new component to the lesson (shown
in blue). At the beginning of the unit, when children are asked “What do you notice about this
picture,” I now recognize the importance of making sure children accept the opinions of others.
Students’ various backgrounds may influence how they view and interpret an image. It is
important for children to recognize that others may have a different opinion or viewpoint, and
that is ok.

Sub-areas addressed: ​Content, learning, curriculum