The use of images in the digital world is the 'norm'. Children will use images to make meaning of the world before they can read text. Including images in the classroom is necessary not only to engage students but to help them to develop their understandings of what the illustrator, photographer or artist is saying.
This image by Jesse Kruger was retrieved from http://www.flickr.com/photos/jessekruger/2945113808/sizes/m/in/photostream/
Winch et al (2006, p. 505) also discuss the ever increasing use of icons as an accepted part of contemporary culture. Learners need to be able to interpret signs and symbols and construct understanding on how to behave or respond to the information provided by the symbol.
Image retrived from http://www.flickr.com/photos/somegeekintn/3810233454/sizes/m/in/photostream/
Some Interesting pictures there Kim, I particularly like the leaf, someone was in the right place at the right time!
ReplyDeleteThe amount of images available now days is simply mind boggling. We can now find an image for any occasion with websites such as 'Flicker', 'Cube search' and 'Tag Galaxy' to name but a few. There is a need to use images often within the classroom, in fact almost in every lesson, whether student are using computers or using workbooks. Images enhance leaning and particularly aids the visual learner. By the time learners leave primary school I think they will able to interpret thousands of signs and symbols. They will also be able to construct understanding of new ones that they come across thanks to the high use of images across the curriculum.