Reading Images, Visualizing Texts: Teaching Visual Analysis through Manga

Abstract

This paper explains several techniques I use to help students develop visual analysis skills in my Japanese Visual Culture class. The in-class exercises outlined here teach students to examine the media they love—manga—through the lens of context, both historical and visual. By challenging students to closely read images and various forms of media, this pedagogy works to help students expand their understanding of Japanese popular culture while also integrating universal design for learning into the classroom. This gives visually oriented students a chance to participate more fully through privileging the visual over the textual for part of the class. Finally, the pedagogical exercises discussed can be done with manga whether on paper or online, bridging the oft – perceived divide between digital and analog experiences in the classroom.