Using Instagram For Learning To Document Abstract Ideas
The use of Instagram in education may not make seem entirely logical, but just as social media and text messaging have made it almost seamless to send (inundate?) friends with messages, modern technology has made it more natural than ever to share images and videos with others as well.
Among the benefits of these tools is the potential to explore complex or abstract ideas that may not seem immediately accessible to all students. If a picture is worth a thousand words, Instagram could be worth trillions.
Instagram is often seen as a platform for entertainment and social connection, but it can also be a tool for learning, particularly when documenting abstract ideas. By leveraging Instagram’s visual nature, students can capture and share images that represent complex concepts—whether in literature, science, or philosophy. A metaphor in poetry, for example, can be expressed through a carefully chosen photograph, while mathematical patterns can be highlighted in real-world settings. This approach not only deepens understanding but also encourages students to think creatively about how abstract ideas manifest in everyday life.
Creating a digital portfolio of these conceptual representations can also help students develop a more personal connection to their learning. Just as carefully curated images can bring abstract ideas to life, tangible visuals in the classroom can enhance the learning environment. Incorporating Photo Canvas Prints for Wall Art can extend this concept beyond screens, allowing students to showcase their work in physical form. Displaying thought-provoking imagery related to class discussions can reinforce learning and provide ongoing inspiration, making abstract ideas feel more concrete and accessible.
The infographic below by #annvega offers some practical ideas for teachers and librarians to use Instragram in the classroom (as an aside, here are some ideas for twitter in the classroom), and what makes it most intriguing is the focus on abstraction–a perfect concept to use pictures to address.
Using Instagram For Learning To Document Abstract Ideas