Digital Tool 2

Images

The saying goes "a picture says a thousand words". With this, it is easy to understand why learning can start with, include, or end with a single picture. The idea that an image can spark great debate, or inspire great work, is an appropriate way to include a picture into an activity. The photograph above was taken by me, for an artwork I was creating. The concept of this individual picture was to demonstrate the hecticness involved with creating, while also showing all creations can start with a blank page. To use this within a learning environment, I would present this photograph to the entire class and ask for students' thoughts of this picture. From this, I would explain the thoughts of the artist and then lead to either the students creating their own artwork/photograph or allow a debate of pros and cons regarding the colour/line/texture/etc of this artwork. The individual picture would be appropriately linked to the overall lesson objectives. For example, if I was to conduct a lesson on Australian history I would present an image which relates to Australia during the Europian settlement. Another example would be the use of an Ned Kelly or Sir 'Banjo' Paterson for an introduction to a lesson/unit on Infamous Australians or Australian Poetry. This process demonstrates the use of an image as an introduction to a concept, however, for the use of an image throughout a lesson could include the images involved with telling a story of a class excursion or camp. Students should be scaffolded with the appropriate behaviour associated with responsibilites for using a device like a camera, iPod, iPhone, or other device. I think the use of images with learning concepts assists with students linking new knowledge to emotional aspects, while also giving a visual aid to students who may prefer this way of learning.