To Show and Explain: The Information Graphics of Stevin and Comenius

Authors

  • Krysztof Lenk
  • Paul Kahn

Abstract

The development of diagrammatic presentation during the sixteenth centuries is briefly examined with particular emphasis on the work of Simon Stevin and Johann Amos Comenius. Stevin juxtaposed abstract mathematical notation with concrete example from life. Comenius joined languages including Latin, a vernacular language, numbering systems and diagrammatic representation into experiential chunks for effective teaching. The authors believe study of these early visual pedagogical constructs offer renewed insight into diagrammatic possibilities for contemporary education.

Author Biographies

  • Krysztof Lenk
    Krzysztof Lenk, a native of Warsaw, studied at the Academy of Fine Arts in Warsaw and Cracow. Since 1982 he has been professor of graphic design at Rhode Island School of Design in Providence, where he teaches typography, information graphics and design for the computer screen. Lenk and Kahn have long had a common interest in the history of graphic information and its transfer to the computer. Recently they formed a partnership in Dynamic Diagrams, Inc., where they work as consultants in visual logic, as designers of computer user interface, and as inventors of diagrams for print and electronic media
  • Paul Kahn
    Paul Kahn, a native of New York City, took a degree in English Literature at Kenyon College, Ohio. Since 1985 he has been with the Institute for Research in Information and Scholarship at Brown University where he now serves as director. He works with a variety of hypermedia systems in education.

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Published

1992-07-01

Issue

Vol. 26 No. 3-4 (1992): Volume 26.3-4

Section

Journal Article