visual literacy

YASEMİN GÜLLE

Visual literacy is the ability to see, to understand, and ultimately to think, create, and communicate graphically.

Choosing The Adequate Picture Type

The first step is to choose right visualization format and graphics alements. Is text sufficient that uses simple icons, do you require a realistic image, or will abstract diagrams, appealing visual metaphors,or geographic maps capture your ideas.

Using Retinal Variables Correctly The second step is to think about how to use

the basic graphi elements such as size, shape or position to map information unto space.

Respecting Design PrinciplesWhen filling the graphic background space, you need to respect certain design principles: Use allingment to create group and borders ,employ repetition to create unity,use contrast to focus attention,group things that are similar closely together and be consistent in your use of colors,shapes,symbols.

Avoiding Pitfalls

Then check if you have avoided pitfalls of visualization:don’t overload it with unstructured elements,don’t oversimply your messages.

Innovating Finally make your visualization unique,insightful and

appealing:reframe issues by presenting them in a different way, surprise your viewers by breaking expectations and intrigue them through new metaphors,patterns and visual effects.

If you achieved all five levels you are taking advantage of the power of visualization. You can expect the following benefits: Attention Motivation Compherension Memorability