Brief description of the Assessment
This research assignment is divided into 2 parts. Part 1 will be research on one of the course topics from any of the weeks (students choose topics from bowl with the topics written on folded papers) and Part 2 will be representing this research in an infographic or an animated video (students will choose one of these methods). Students learn a lot from doing either one of these types. The amount of work for both types is equal. It takes about two weeks to do this assignment.
Step by step instructions for the students and Rubric
Ways to assess student work
Formative (Graded)
Sample/model explanation for students about how this activity develops their digital literacies
This assignment develops students’ digital literacies in the following ways: a) research and finding credible information online as well as critical thinking when it comes to online research, b) presenting content visually using a digital tool (so learning the technical skills of using that tool), c) learning to communicate visually using infographics and animated videos is a skill of today’s age so it’s useful in that regard and finally also considering visual design, accessibility, coherence, voice clarity…etc. are all digital literacies students ought to learn.
Faculty support material
Student support material
Average preparation time for faculty (in minutes)
1-2 hours to write instructions, adapt and edit rubric and incorporate in syllabus and align with learning outcomes.
Average time it takes students to complete this activity
It takes students an average of 2 weeks to work on this assignment; one week for each phase. Often times, students can submit a draft earlier than the deadline and get feedback from faculty about it.
Necessary tools/technologies
Piktochart for Infographics (but if students prefer, they could use any other tool they like). Powtoon for the animated video (students could also opt for another tool)
Sample Applications in Different Disciplines
Infographic Samples Animated Video Samples
Possible Adaptations
It’s possible to increase/decrease research load, time based on work required, requirement for voice narration. It’s also possible to use Canva or another tool for creating infographics. There are also many tools online for creating animated videos so students are free to choose. It’s not a requirement to use these specific tools for the assignment.
Additional Information
A very helpful thing to do is give students the option of submitting a draft to get your feedback on. Another tip is to grade the assignment and give feedback as early as possible so students feel the benefit of timely feedback. Finally, tell students to have some fun with this assignment and explore their creativity.