Visuals and diagrams are used extensively in learning - especially in e-learning 
and other online mediums. Yet their significance is frequently overlooked. Too often, visuals are seen as a bit of window dressing, applied with little thought, as a way to liven up some dull text.
While not trying to turn you into an instant graphic designer, the modules in this content stream will help you to:
- understand better the true power and significance of visuals and diagrams
- feel comfortable using them, and
- show you how to apply them for maximum impact on learning outcomes.
What are the modules in this stream?
There are currently two modules for you to choose from in our Visuals for Learning stream:
Module 1: Understanding visual design principles and guidelines
Visual and graphic designers well understand the principles and guidelines for creating and placing graphics on the screen. By contrast, these principles are largely unknown in the world of instructional design. This module helps you:
- understand these prinicples and the impact they have on learning
- work confidently with graphic and visual designers when commissioning or refining design work
- think visually by giving you strategies to integrate visuals and diagrams into your instructional design approach.
Module length:
- Standard version: 1.5 hours
- Express version: 1 hour
- Detailed version: Not available for this module
Module code: VL01
Module 2: Visual actions and tools to support learning
With an understanding of visual design principles in place, you can now apply your understanding by using a series of actions and tools. This module covers the practical application of principles through:
- understanding visual categories - the different types of visuals and how they optimise knowledge transfer
- Aligning visuals with your purpose - making sure visuals correspond to the purpose of your content (and understanding the impact on learning outcomes if you don't), and
- specific actions you can take to reinforce learning and specific tools you can use to implement design principles.
Module length:
- Standard version: 1.5 hours
- Express version: 1 hour
- Detailed version: Not available for this module
Module code: VL02
What about practice?
All modules contain a variety of exercises and activities, making the learning experience practical, hands-on and highly interactive.
If you choose a programme which is longer than a day, we strongly encourage you to identify some existing content we can work on as a 'rolling case study'. If you prefer, we can provide generic case study materials.
Browse more content streams
Use the links below (or the menu above left) to browse modules in the other content streams:
Putting it all together
Ready to think about pulling your selected modules together into a programme? Have some questions about what to do next?
Go to our How Does It All Work? page for a clear nuts and bolts explanation of putting your programme together:
Find out all about how the programme works here.