Motion graphics animations are one of the most effective and versatile forms of communication, and are invaluable for supporting instructional goals in education. From depicting procedural illustrations to displaying virtual sets that require problem-solving and decision-making skills, motion graphics present academic content in unique and engaging ways. When designing visual materials for learning, think about the predominant use of graphics in your course.

• Organizational graphics present lesson content in a structured and sequenced order and are often used for visual overviews or summaries.
• Representational graphics present concrete concepts and factual information related to tasks, equipment, and settings.
• Relational graphics communicate quantitative relationships between two or more variables and are often used in physics, economics, and mathematics.
• Transformational graphics communicate movement of objects through space and time and are used to illustrate procedures and processes.
• Interpretive visuals present abstract concepts or principles and are used to illustrate ideas, theories, or opinions.

When designing motion graphics for learning, consider the following steps:

• Align the communicative function of the animation with specific instructional goals.
• Maintain clarity; start static and animate layers to build the explanation.
• Make your animation flow; consider pacing, sequencing, structure and rhythm.
• Use a consistent topography and color palette style throughout the entire animation.
• Determine the project constraints – project timeline, animation length, software, and minimum content requirements.
• Experiment with different animation techniques to help create a motion graphic animation that achieves your learning objectives.

Design Plan for Your Motion Graphics Animation

Written by Kate Lee, Smith College Senior Media Producer