Definition or Description:

Graphic design is the process and art of combining text and graphics to produce an efficient and effective means of visually communicating information or concepts. Graphic design activities may require the use of a variety of print, electronic, and film media to visually deliver information in the most efficient and effective way possible. Thus, graphic design requires not only basic artistic skill but also familiarity with a number of graphic design tools including desktop publishing software and common presentation tools such as PowerPoint.

Comment:

In courses that involve computer technology, distance learning, or certain content areas, it may be necessary to incorporate more graphic material than would be the case in a face-to-face class, or in a course not requiring as much graphic representation of content. SoTL studies could explore the effectiveness of graphic materials in general, (for example, as supplements to instruction using other methods) or could more specifically investigate issues related to graphic design (for example, amount of detail, dimensionality, effectiveness as affected by different methods of delivery, etc.). Because such instances are less frequent, this skill will be required only occasionally.

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