Reflection of Lesson 2

In this session, we learnt what visualization is and we can get some ideas to present our information to the viewer. Let us see what visualization is: Visualization (graphic), as in any technique for creating images, diagrams, or animations to communicate any message. For example, Scientific visualization, an application of computer graphics which is concerned with the presentation of potentially huge quantities of laboratory, simulation or abstract data to aid cognition, hypotheses building and reasoning. Knowledge visualization, a sub discipline of Information Design and Instructional Message Design. Product visualization, visualization software technology for manufacture of components and large assemblies of products and music visualization, a feature found in some media player software applications.

We also learn about what visual language is. When you create an image to communicate an idea, you are using visual language. We can 'visualize' our thinking as well as verbalize it. The elements in an image represent concepts in a spatial context, rather than the linear form used for words. Speech and visual communication are a parallel and usually interdependant means by which humans exchange complex information. A diagram, a map, a painting are all examples of the use of the visual language. It's structural units include the following : Line, Shape, Color, Motion, Texture, Pattern, Direction, Orientation, Scale, Angle, Space and Proportion.
Applications of visual are very wide range, for example Photorealistic Images, Paintings and drawings, Caricatures, cartoons, abstract art, Maps of territories (real and abstract), Symbols and icons, Diagrams and charts, Mindmaps etc. A mind map (or mind-map) is a diagram used to represent words and ideas linked to and arranged radially around a central key word or idea. It is used to generate, visualize, structure and classify ideas, and as an aid in study, organization, problem solving, and decision making. It is an image-centered diagram that represents semantic or other connections between portions of information. By presenting these connections in a radial, non-linear graphical manner, it encourages a brainstorming approach to any given organizational task, eliminating the hurdle of initially establishing an intrinsically appropriate or relevant conceptual framework to work within.

To have effective communication with the reader, interactivity is very important. For example, in task 2 of this lesson, we have to produce a interactive presentation of the atmosphere. In my work, I make use of dreamweaver and make use of the "show and hide layer" function to produce a interactive interface with the user.