If an image is worth 1000 words, what is an image plus visual explanations plus expository numbers worth? An infographic represents complex information with a combination of images, text and numbers. Take a minute to look at this great page on the why of infographics.

The case for using infographics is fairly compelling, but there is a downside. Infographics that convey inaccurate or simply wrong information also exist, and they can be as convincing as the ones that are accurate.

The Internet is full of infographics,and they can add value to content, particularly when it is complicated and we want to make is more understandable.Here, and below, is an infographic that explains a teaching methodology. Though it has more text than most, it nonetheless pulls the reader through and explains fairly succinctly the Montessori Method.

Here is another one that is effective with today's learners, though not because it simplifies the understanding of complex data. Instead, it simply present straightforward information with nice graphics and large font, making it easy to read and work through.

Here's a website, DailyInfographic, that posts a different infographic everyday. While this is a great place to see all manner if infographics, they do not vet them. Here, and below, is one chock full of bad information.

Here is another website with nice examples of infographics, called ChartPorn, and another called CoolInfographics. It is worthwhile spending some time perusing these.

Other than making sure the information and data you put in an infographic is accurate, there is no right or wrong as to how to present it.

Bullet Point Summary

• Images, including infographics, can help students understand content
• The downside to images and infographics is that they can be misleading
• With the tools available, it is easy to create and edit images and infographics

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