Visuals for Language

Complex language phenomena and grammatical structures are fragmented in textbooks and presented in segments for learners. Therefore, the process of learning a foreign language requires the ability to perceive these segments and combine them in a mental model. To help learners analyse these segments, text markers and visual elements are often used. This strategy can be helpful in increasing learners' attention, structuring important attributes and making connections between segments visible. However, a lack of systematic approach in the creation of text markers and visual elements leads to visual inconsistencies and contradictions that can slow down information processing and lead to misunderstandings.

This work has the intention to create design guidelines that allow a consistent visual encoding of these segments. The aim is to minimise the cognitive load on users, increase the memorability of the content and facilitate comparison between segments. To show how these guidelines can be applied, this study presents a visual system for grammatical explanation of German as a foreign language.

Master thesis by Barbara Vissirini
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Supervision:
Prof. Franziska Morlok & Prof. Dr. Marian Dörk