Why timelines are a great way to revamp your learning environment
Wall graphics are a powerful learning resource, which have the ability to transform any area of a school. In addition they can feature many different themes, from reading to healthy eating. One of the most popular themes chosen by schools is history timelines, and this blog will show you why! Furthermore school timeline graphics are one of many learning resources that can be used to engage pupils. Helping to increase both the memorability and context of key dates and events throughout history.
This blog features some examples of timelines we have created for schools, each has a unique style and design, tailored to each school. We collaborate with every school to collate important dates and events they would like to feature so each timeline is completely bespoke. To view all of our wall graphics projects, click here.
So why a timeline?
Firstly timelines add context
Visualising the order of historical events and dates chronologically within a timeline gives important context. This means pupils can see how key events coincide with each other, and get the bigger picture!
For example, take a look at the inspirational history timeline we created at Elliston Primary Academy. The design uses a set style for characters throughout history and places them in chronological order going up the stairs. The timeline features key events and dates from the curriculum including bespoke content relevant to the Cleethorpes area.
Visuals improve memorability, processing power, and imagination
Using visuals like timelines as a learning resource is a great way to improve memorability. Studies have found that one of the easiest ways to ensure that learners store information in their long-term memory is to pair concepts with meaningful images.
At Bridgewater Primary we approached the design for the history timeline with a striking photographic slant. We used a range of iconic photography for each historic event which creates a visually stunning design.
Boost processing power
Did you know that the brain processes images faster than text? A lot faster!
According to the Visual Teaching Alliance:
- Visuals are processed 60,000x faster than text in the brain.
- 90% of information transmitted to the brain is visual.
- The brain can see images that last for just 13 milliseconds.
In other words, all of this speedy brain processing power means that human beings process visual information more efficiently than text. Try it out yourself with this example:
Therefore visual learning resources such as wall graphics are amazing ways for pupils to quickly learn information.
Another example, is at Southcoates Primary Academy where three staircases were completely transformed using wall graphics. One of which featured an eye-catching history timeline. The design used a tree branch device which grew and sprouted leaves upwards throughout the staircase. Historic events, dates, and people are featured along the branch in chronological order. Overall this creates a fantastic visual learning resource.
Finally, stimulate imagination
Visuals have been found to improve learning by up to 400 percent, affecting learners on a cognitive level and stimulating imagination. Furthermore, studies have found that visuals such as knowledge maps improve performance in areas including:
- Reading comprehension
- Student achievement
- Organising and communicating ideas
- Finding patterns and relationships
For instance, the school timeline graphics at Grosvenor Road, set out history in the style of a knowledge map. It uses a bespoke character style for historic figures and events to create an engaging display. Situated in pride of place in the school entrance, it creates a learning environment that stimulates imagination which all the pupils can enjoy!
Get in touch
If you would like to find out more about how we could bring your ideas to life in your school, please get in touch.
To view more examples of our wall graphics work visit click here.