October 25, 2010

By: Carolyn D. from Portland, OR
Comments: 14

Posted By: Carolyn Drake
On: 10/19/2007 3:12:45 PM

As an English teacher, I think it is important to discuss the way language is manipulated to control the dissemination of information. Part of this discussion relates to sign/symbol systems. Trying to introduce the concept of semiotics to high school students, however, is more than a little tricky. Using visual symbols helps students see how a simple object can connote complex meanings, but even this can be a bit weighty. How does this relate to design? The significance of images is best understood by deconstructing examples using the elements and principles of design. My current favorite means of introducing the concept is by showing the Monty Python clip, "Semaphore Wuthering Heights." In it, Heathcliff and Catherine communicate their passionate, doomed love for each other by waving flags across the moors. It is hysterical. I am hoping that you, my distinguished colleagues, have similar brilliant (and contemporary, and hopefully funny) methods for introducing tricky concepts. So please, do tell.

Posted By: Brittain Villaflor
On: 4/11/2008 5:13:19 PM

I saw the title "Design Speaks" and this may be a different topic but I had two interesting observations from my 6 year old relating to logo design and how kids' perception can differ from adults. She commented on the check mark that was on a piece of clothing she thought she needed for a sport. When I asked her more about it, I realized she was talking about the Nike swoosh. When she woke up in the car last weekend, we were in the Target parking lot and she said "I know where I am - Target." When I asked her how she knew she said that she had seen the "dog's eye." This reminds me that visual symbols are so powerful and usually recognized by small children way before they can read. It also makes me think of what meaning they see behind these icons and what that means.