Animated Infographics in Digital Educational Publishing : Case Study of Educational Animated Infographics

Abstract

The purpose of this thesis was to study the possibilities of animated infographics in the technologically developing field of educational publishing. Digital books can be enhanced in many ways, including animations. This thesis explored the advantages and disadvantages of animated infographics in digital schoolbooks in Finland.

First the current state of Finnish educational materials was charted examining the potential for digital learning. The history of infographics and animation were then studied in the context of educational use. The theory was applied to case animations in order to create effective animated infographics.

The commissioner of this thesis was e-Oppi Oy, a publisher of educational books that are primarily made for digital platforms. Three technically diverse infographics from different subjects were chosen to be animated.

It was concluded that animations as infographics have unique benefits in learning materials. They should be used with consideration. Whether a specific infographic should be animated or not depends on the subject matter and if there are enough resources to be used. More research needs to be done on the effectiveness of animation as an educational tool as technology opens up possibilities for even more immersive applications.