Visual Learning

Wikipedia defines visual learning as a "teaching and learning style in which ideas, concepts, data and other information are associated with images and techniques." In Phillip Seymour's article "The Power of Images," he describes the need for visual learning in most fascists of education. The author believes that pictures play a vital role in education at all level. Seymour points out that 30% of all brain development is visual. The brain can process pictures 4 times faster than it can text. Using visual images can also improve critical thinking skills, visual literacy skills, and can enhance the learner’s technological skills. Seymour goes on to provide the reader with activities teachers can try in their own classroom. Lesson concepts titled, “Emotional images,” “Is Seeing Believing,” Deep Seeing & Deep Listing,” “What are they trying to sell me,” and “Create an Advertisement” are all way the author encourages teachers to use visual representation in the lessons they teach.

The Joys of Action Research

Cynthia Elliot’s article, Action Research: Authentic Learning Transforms Student and Teacher Success, examines how teachers who are involved in case studies benefit from the experience. Elliot beliefs that successful cases studies can play a vital role in a teacher’s improvement, why also impacting student success. Teachers… “become empowered through their newfound knowledge as they explore their own questions and begin to see the impact of their decisions on student learning.” The author believes that case studies can provide valuable insights into one’s own practice. When teachers have to take a hard look at themselves they learn more. Teachers can then use their new found learning to assist others within their own school. As a result, everyone (teachers, co-workers, and students) wins.

I believe that most people in life believe they are making progress, but all they are really doing is jumping through the hoops that someone before them set up. To truly better one’s self they have to commit to something and be willing to change. I agree with this article, because in the end the teacher is learning the most from themselves. If a teacher takes a hard look in the mirror there is always room for improvement.