Digital Visual Literacy for the 21st Century: Use SCRAP Design Principles to Create Better Presentations

Presenter: Thorpe, Janice

Organization: University of Colorado Colorado Springs

Role: Senior Instructor

Track: Hands On Workshop

Topic: Innovative Presentation Design

Level: Intermediate

Abstract: Digital Visual Literacy is a vital 21st century skill and includes (but is not limited to) 1) an understanding of basic visual design elements, and 2) the ability to effectively communicate using visual imagery. Participants will be introduced to the SCRAP approach (Simplicity, Contrast, Repetition, Alignment, and Proximity) and learn to apply simple visual design principles for more effective presentations or lectures.

Bio: Janice Thorpe is a Senior Instructor at the University of Colorado Colorado Springs. She has been teaching and working in higher education and adult training for 21 years. Her main interests include public speaking, business communication, instructional design, and program assessment. She is currently the Course Director for Business Communication as well as the Assessment Coordinator for the Communication Department. Her most recent project was as co-author of a textbook on using technology in presentations, which was developed for advanced public speakers and focuses on the skills and tools needed for 21st century speakers. Professor Thorpe often acts as a guest lecturer and consultant to help speakers create better visuals and use Web tools for more interactive presentations, both in and out of the classroom.

Description: 

Please note: this workshop is BYOL (Bring Your Own Laptop).

Much research shows that even if you have been creating presentations since middle school, you may not have been taught visual literacy skills, which are different from technology skills.  Even trained speakers rely too heavily on bullets and lists, and cluttered slides with visual effects that add little substance.  Anyone who gives any sort of presentation, or teaches a class and presents with technology, will benefit from learning how to add visualization techniques, and apply simple design rules, to connect and engage their audience.  Using the SCRAP approach, participants will learn basic visual design principles that can be implemented immediately to attract and maintain listeners’ attention. Not only will their slides be more professional looking, but the concepts also apply to any print materials that might be used. 

This workshop is a cross between a General Presentation, Demonstration, and Hands-on workshop and participants are best served with a 2.5 hour format (if possible).  The target audience for this course ranges from Mere Mortals to Advanced presenters. 

Participants should bring:

1. Laptops - loaded with presentation software of choice
2. A sample set of slides for revision (or topic outline for creation of slide set)

Presenter materials will be available to participants via a OneDrive© link, one week before the conference.  The preferred class size is 15-20.