Module 3

Article Discussion: “PowerPoint is Evil”



            The article written by Edward Tufte explains his opinion of the ways PowerPoint disturbs the content within a lesson. Tufte’s position is understandably strong and may be even valid. He makes several points that are true that could very well disrupt content.


            When pondering the usage and purpose of PowerPoint, I tend to disagree with Tufte. Though he made concrete statement, I believe PowerPoint is a useful, engaging tool to teach and to learn. Adults as well as students learn in many ways. Using PowerPoint is a technological resource used to reach different learning styles. PowerPoint not only helps the visual learning, but it also is great for engagement. Tufte stated that the content projected through PowerPoint is not rich enough. That may be true; however, ongoing discussions, activities, projects, and collaborations should take place so that the PowerPoint content is supported through multiple means. Learning does not begin and end on the big screen. Shortening content, for PowerPoint purposes, assist those who may struggle with certain behavioral, mental or learning difficulties such as ADHD or dyslexia and poor vision.  It allows for so much more such as the inclusion of songs, videos, pictures, illustrations, touch navigation and so much more.  PowerPoint makes learning fun and more exciting, which will attract interest from all types of students.  The information shown on PowerPoint maybe condensed but the lessons learned, through good teaching, go far beyond what is typed.  I believe that PowerPoint is a great tool to use due to the shifts in teaching practices and the way students are engaging and participating in the real world.