Things to Consider
in Making & Selecting
Visual Aids
Outline
Start with at least a rough outline of the goal and major points of the presentation before selecting the visual aid(s).
Setting
Make sure that your visual aid may be used and appropriate to where you will conduct the lesson. Culture of the learners, the technology they have in that area, etc., must be considered.
Distribution
Give participants paper copies of various graphic aids used in your presentation. They will be able to write on the paper copies and have them for future reference.
Time
Account for production time in your planning and selection process. Slides must be developed, filmstrips edited - you do not want to back yourself against a wall because the visuals are not ready. You can often get production work done in 24-48 hours, but it is much morexpensive than work that is done on an extended schedule.
Appropriateness
Use charts and graphs to support the presentation of numerical information. Models may be used in replacement for the "real thing" but you may also consider photographs.
Visual Element/Consistency
Determine the difference between what you will say and what the visual aid will show. Do not read straight from your visuals.
Verbal Element
Make sure to use consistent lettering style and make sure that they are in harmony. Make sure that the letters are in contrast to the background and consider the size and spaces of the letters. For projected materials, you may use the 7x7 rule (max. of 7 lines per slide and 7 words per line)
Element of Appeal
Make sure that your visual aid has an appeal to your viewers. It should catch and hold their attention.
Message
Keep it Simple and Straightforward
Practice Makes Perfect
Practice presenting the visual materials so you are familiar with their use and order.
Feedback
Ask for feedback on the clarity of your visuals and do so early enough to allow yourself time to make needed adjustments.