Infographics?

Yesterday and this past Friday, I suggested students create infographics on the sales for Black Friday and Cyber Monday. Aside from the fact that infographics are becoming more and more popular, one may wonder why we should teach this skill in math classes.

By definition, an infographic is a quick way of presenting information, graphs, or data in a visual way that makes it easy for the brain to see patterns. 

Furthermore, a well designed inforgraphic makes it easier to communicate data to others.  In addition, infographics can be used to introduce new topics, spark discussions, or provide a starting point for more in depth research.

In a sense, creating an infographic is like writing a paper.  The author has specific information they wish to convey to others.  They need to choose the right visualizations or images,  good color combinations with proper spacing and boarders to attract the eyes and make it easy to read.

There are three main parts of the infographic.  First is the visual made up of color coding, graphics and reference icons.  The second is the content with time frame references, statistics, and information on where the statistics were found.  The last part, is the knowledge with facts and deductions.

One way to help students learn to create good infographics is to find some and share them with the students one at a time.   Ask the students to analyze what is good about each one, what could be improved.  Let them discuss what each designer did well in regard to creating the right balance between graphics and text.  Ask if these infographics have all three parts and if so is the information in depth or simple.

Once they have had a chance to see a variety of infographics, it is time for them to think about creating their own. There are five steps to think about when they begin designing their own infographic.
1.  Create a flow chart or skeleton of the information so students know how the information should be grouped and how it is related to each other.
2.  Assign a color scheme so the information is easy to see and is not overwhelmed by a mish mash of color.
3.  Choose the appropriate graphics that tie everything together.  If you need icons, this is where you think about them.
4. Research the data to make sure it is correct and supported by sources.  The best ratio for data to graphics is 1:1 so you want to make sure you have an equal amount of data and graphics. Furthermore, make sure you know who your audience is because that will impact much of the data and graphics you choose to use.
5. Make sure the knowledge is placed so people will be able to make deductions easily.  Do not make someone feel stupid when they read it.

 It is important to plan this all out on paper prior to creating the actual infographic much like a film maker uses a story board to plan a film or animators use a story board when animating a cartoon.  Its best to plan it all out in detail.  Keep your eyes peeled for ways to use infographics in class as part of your teaching.  Today was focused on helping students learn to create their own but they can be used as part of your teaching.

Let me know what you think, I'd love to hear.