Just Some of the Benefits!

The Benefits of Graphic Organizers

·         Research has demonstrated that graphic organizers are useful for students with LD (Lerner & Johns, 2012).

·         The use of a graphic organizer minimizes the stress of working memory.

·         The use of graphic organizers, may be effective before, during, and after a lesson (Dexter & Hughes, 2011).

·         When used properly, they may support learners in applying or developing skills related to Executive Control: A component in the information-processing model that refers to the ability to control and direct one’s own learning. It is also referred to as metacognition. (Lerner & John’s, 2015, p. 146)

·         Graphic Organizers aids students in guiding their ability to grasp concepts and shape their understanding of subject matter (i.e. The Writing Process) (Lerner & John’s, 2015, p. 147).

·         Encourages a student’s metacognitive awareness. “People who exhibit metacognitive awareness when they do something to help themselves learn and remember…These behaviors indicate an awareness of one’s own limitations and the ability to plan for one’s own learning and problem solving” (Lerner and John’s. 2015, p. 149).

·         Students who use graphic organizers will become more active learners – “students who are involved with their learning and contribute to the learning process” (Lerner & Johns, 2015, p. 151).

References

Dexter, D., & Hughes, C. (2011). Graphic organizers and students with learning disabilities: A meta-analysis. Learning Disability Quarterly, 34(1), 51-72.

Lerner, J., & Johns, B.H., (2012). Learning disabilities and related mild disabilities (12th Ed.). Belmont, CA: Wadsworth Cengage Learning.

Lerner, J.W., & Johns. B.H., (2015). Learning disabilities and related disabilities: strategies for success (13th edition). Cengage Learning.