Abstract:

In a world where symbols through communication technologies are every day offering messages all around, there is a need to research in their understanding in order to jump potential barriers for learning in different places and cultures. This article explores the role of graphic communication, to improve water education in rural areas of India. This study will allow us to develop design criteria for improving educational resources about this topic.

At this experimental stage, the study has two objectives in this educational context. The first one is to investigate the identification of some common graphic symbols in the communication of water uses. The second one is to study the features and value of the graphics and signage, to generate more effective educational messages related to this important topic.

The experience was developed during two months in seven rural primary schools in Gujarat (India), involving a representative sample of children and teachers. A selection of symbols in a google survey was the tool to dynamize the activity by providing different options that can be visualized and selected directly by the children as users, in the real environment. The main focus of the experience was constituted by the direct observation of the children interacting with the system with greater involvement.

Finally, the results validate the graphics as the main tool to increase communication and motivation about the relevance of this topic, setting and promoting a new way of developing communication and a renewed interest in it. This experience established contact with children at their place, giving relevant information on their perception and interpretation, which is valuable to improve different educational resources trough design. It is essential agreeing to a common frame of graphics for the design of educational purposes. It is necessary to understand that requirements come from needs and needs come from people.

Keywords:

Graphic communication, symbols, design, rural education.