Visual Logic & Visual Thinking
( uses for learning and teaching )

      We can think logically in a variety of ways.  Some of my favorite thinking tools are visually logical organizing techniques — concept maps and matrices & diagrams (cluster, hierarchical, webbing, Venn,...), flowcharts,... — that encourage and facilitate thinking, as in visual thinking for problem solving.  Another website also shows activities (for teachers and students) involving Graphic Organizers plus Journaling and Literature.
        A comprehensive overview of Visual Thinking by Maria Ebner & Derek Bruff (for Vanderbilt U) offers plenty of useful tips, and links to explore!
      Venn Diagrams:  For example, the shared (and unique) characteristics of three students are clearly shown in this Venn Diagram.  A simple visual introduction to basic logic (AND, OR, NOT) uses internet searching as an example.  Two related types of diagrams (Veb and Venn) are illustrated in Visual Models of Logic.  A page by Edward Rozycki has lots of Venn-examples.  Diagrams that are colorful and geometrically interesting, plus lots of ideas, are in A Survey of Venn Diagrams and Combinatorics & Geometry.

      Visual Thinking is a fascinating area that eventually (maybe in April 2017) will be explored more thoroughly, especially in its educational applications for learning and teaching.  For now, here are some starters for you, about definition & skills & visual-spatial thinking & examples of use by scientists & principles for use in print-design & (from the editor) educational applications.
 

Copyright © 2007 by Craig Rusbult, all rights reserved