Participate and share: Interactive session 
The purpose of this presentation is to empower K-12 educators who regularly use technology in their classrooms to harness the power of visual design for creating inclusive and engaging learning materials. I will demonstrate how strategic visual design can enhance the student learning experience, boost comprehension, and elevate classroom management.
Objectives:
1. Participants will understand the impact of visual design on the learning experience:
Define the role of visual design in enhancing student engagement and comprehension.
Identify common challenges associated with poorly designed learning materials.
2. Participants will learn practical design techniques and guidelines:
Explore effective visual design principles for educational materials.
Analyze and critique sample materials to understand design improvements.
3. Participants will actively apply design concepts:
Collaborate with peers and the presenter to redesign a sample learning resource.
Create a personalized learning material using design strategies discussed.
4. Participants will develop classroom management strategies through design:
Discover how visual design can streamline classroom management.
Share insights and best practices for creating organized and efficient materials.
5. Participants will leave with actionable tools and resources:
Access a toolkit of design resources and templates.
Receive guidance on implementing design changes in their classrooms immediately.
Educational/Infrastructure Challenge:
Many educators face the dilemma of creating effective digital content that accommodates diverse learner needs.
Technology Intervention:
All concepts can be applied to various platforms: Google Workspace, Microsoft, Canva, Adobe Express. The Stickity Add-on will be mentioned, but is not required to have in order to effectively learn from this session.
Models Employed:
I will employ a hands-on workshop model, encouraging active participation and collaboration among attendees.
Lesson Plans/Instructional Activities/Strategies:
Participants will be provided with a digital document that they can use to work alongside me or collect notes if they would like to. There are a few different segments of my presentation that require me talking, then it's the participants turn to demonstrate their new knowledge. 60% presentation and 40% interactive. Agenda: Intro (5 min), Why Design Matters (15), Typography (20), Color choices (15), User Interactions (25), Closing and Questions (10)
Evidence of Success:
Success will be measured through participant feedback and post-session surveys, focusing on their newfound knowledge, skills, and confidence in implementing design improvements in their classrooms. Participants will also be encouraged to share their designs, if they so choose.
Participants will be provided with a digital document that they can use to work alongside me or collect notes if they would like to. There are a few different segments of my presentation that require me talking, then it's the participants turn to demonstrate their new knowledge. 60% presentation and 40% interactive. Agenda: Intro (5 min), Why Design Matters (15), Typography (20), Color choices (15), User Interactions (25), Closing and Questions (10)
Supporting Documentation:
"The Non-Designer's Design Book" by Robin Williams - This widely acclaimed book provides a beginner-friendly introduction to design principles, making it accessible for educators looking to enhance their visual design skills.
Edutopia: Visual Design for Educators (https://www.edutopia.org/article/using-lessons-visual-design-make-better-materials-students/)
"Design for How People Learn" by Julie Dirksen - This book delves into the science of how people learn and provides practical advice on designing effective learning experiences, making it a valuable resource for educators seeking to improve comprehension.
Recognized Experts in Educational Design:
Julie Dirksen - A renowned instructional designer, Julie Dirksen's work emphasizes the connection between design and learning.
Tom Murray - A thought leader in education technology, Tom Murray advocates for using design to create equitable learning environments.
Patti Shank - An expert in instructional design, Patti Shank's research explores the impact of design on learning outcomes.
Inclusive Design Websites: These websites highlight the importance of designing inclusively, which aligns with the session's goal of increasing access for all learners.
Web Accessibility Initiative (WAI) - A resource by the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C) focusing on web accessibility.
CAST (Center for Applied Special Technology) - An organization that promotes Universal Design for Learning (UDL) in education.
National Education Association (NEA) Resources - The NEA offers articles and resources related to designing equitable and engaging learning experiences for all students.
These resources collectively support the importance of visual design in education, showcasing how effective design can enhance the learning experience, increase comprehension, and improve classroom management. They provide a strong foundation for the session's content and practices.
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