Design to learn better

Updated on: Monday, November 23, 2009

There has been a growing awareness on textbook design. “Textbook design is being looked upon as a serious proposition because of several reasons

Firstly, teachers are seeking textbooks that are designed in a manner which helps them access key information easily. Secondly, both teachers and students are seeking design layouts that can help simplify the teaching/learning process,” says Kate Kunac, head of design, Schoolbooks, Oxford University Press. Further elaborating, she says, “The learning experience can be augmented through design. Right fonts, correct spacing, appropriate font and paper colours, and accurate tints can go a long way in engaging learners and ultimately enhancing recall.”

Kunac states that the fundamental principle in textbook design is that design has to complement the subject and communicate its essence. “However, design needs to go beyond this role. It should convey concepts effectively as well,” she adds. Citing an example, Kunac says, “For instance, mathematics textbooks need to have a clear layout for equations.

But the UK’s curriculum now requires us to add sections to the books that look at how mathematics is used in the context of everyday life. We have spreads designed specifically to illustrate concepts like patterns in nature, measurement/travel distances, shopping/budgeting, and construction of buildings, among others. We have been able to achieve this by employing engaging imagery that eventually helps in augmenting interest of students towards mathematics as a subject.”

Talking about the nuances to be borne in mind while designing textbooks, Kunac says, “There is a standard set of requirements around cultural sensitivity including representing all ethnicities (as across the UK), in our books and not specifically referring to any religious or political content that will limit our audience. Moreover, we keep in mind students who have special learning needs and include examples of such people in our titles.

Fonts and typography must be clear — type that is either white or coloured on a dark background is impossible to read. Many of our students have reading problems, and we endeavour to make things as clear for them as possible.

The principles that work are — dark text on light backgrounds, font sizes appropriate to the age of the learning group, generous leading and line lengths that are not too long. We have also commissioned special fonts, which make readability easier (eg. making sure the ‘d’ and ‘bs’ look different — these are letters which are confusing for dyslexic students).”

Kunac reveals that textbook designers also need to be aware of what students read in their pastime and which computer games are popular. “The objective is to employ design elements (in terms of heading font or illustration/colour palette) that will truly interest the student, while being readable,” she elaborates.

The times of india

Design to learn better

More Education news