IT Masters Program

Lesson 3: Review of Image Purpose Graphics in Presentations Instructional Technology Distance Masters Program Module 10 Handout #2 Image Purposes The purpose of having a graphic image in your presentation may be three fold. Graphics are used to motivate, instruct and to deliver information or act as visual communication. This is a brief review of these types of graphics and their function in a presentation. Motivational Use Graphics may be used motivational to arouse general curiosity and interest. To add motivation a graphic may refresh a presentation’s level of novelty and curiosity. Animation is a good attention getting device and can be motivational. Graphics can be categorized as motivational if they help create an interesting visual environment. When they are used as visual feed back they tend to satisfy an audience. However, visuals that are used for motivation run the risk of distracting from the intended message. This can be especially true of animations that are used for effect but do not support the message or concept being presented. Many of the motivational effects of graphics are temporary and are therefore not the best instructional aid. When graphics are used motivational to change behavior, as in advertising, some of the following tactics may be used: Statistical manipulation in charts, tables and graphs Media personality advocating an important concept Repetition of brand or logo Back to Lesson 3.