Journal 3

Krauss, J. (2012). More than words can say: Infographics. Learning and leading with technology, 39(5),  10-14. Retrieved from http://www.iste.org/learn/publications/learning-and-leading/February-2012.aspx. 


In the article Infographics More than Words Can Say, written by Jane Krauss, Krauss draws attention to the notion that there is more than one way to learn, and in order to better understand something, people need to think outside the box sometimes. I think it is a general understanding that everybody is different. In today's world, the idea of "normalcy" can be seen throughout every crevice of society. The thing I think people don't realize though, is that there is no such thing as normal. Nobody is perfect. Everybody has their strengths and their weaknesses. Everyone is fighting their own battle. As soon as we realize this and accept it, so many of our problems will take care of themselves.


With that being said, every student is different. Some students can gather and retain information from lectures or the books and be fine when it comes to spewing out the information on the test or quiz. But with the idea that everybody is different, while some can learn this way, a lot of people have trouble. Infographics is a blend between the old and new, and studies are showing that teachers who use this simple tool, are witnessing better results from their students.


Q1: How can this tool be used effectively in the classroom?
A1: Take the subject of History for a moment. The majority of students I feel, think history is boring. I know this because I am a student, and at times, History is a very boring subject. I didn't enjoy history when I was younger, and the common argument people will make is that there are too many dates and events to remember. I think Infographics has a place in the classroom, and I feel that when it comes time for me to teach a class about, say, American History, I will be able to teach the subject more effectively using this tool, as it can easily simplify  a complex idea or event while at the same time showing what helped cause this event to take place along with what resulted from the event.


Q2: Will I use this tool when I am a teacher?
A2: I'd like to think I will. I feel that learning has come easy for me for the most part. I've had great teachers and a great support system back home that have given me the tools to learn and succeed. I've seen friends struggle in school, although they are fantastic human beings and are way better at certain things than I am, the educational system that we have in place today is catered primarily I feel (I could be wrong, I don't have a lot of experience and my opinion is simply opinion based) to a "normal" education. I think the sooner we understand that everybody is different and some people have problems learning and retaining the subject material, the better off we will be in finding solutions that are geared for helping other individuals learn what basic knowledge "the man" feels we should know. Yes, I will definitely try to incorporate this tool in my teaching.