The Compelling Experience of Photography

I am attempting to discover how the study of what makes photographs compelling can be applied to teaching. In our study of photography, we examined elements of a good photograph, the elements of composition: pattern, symmetry, texture, depth of field, and lines, as well as subject placement, framing, balance, and lighting. What can these things possibly have to do with education? If anything, these composition elements may be compared to effective tools of classroom magagement. A well ordered classroom with clearly defined expectations creates a safe environment in which learning may be facilitated, but does not necessarily translate into compelling experiences. The element of a photograph that is truly compelling is not it's technical aspects (although, as we have seen, these certainly do contribute), but it's emotional quality. Does it have significance to me, as the viewer? Can I relate to the subject, is the image moving, does it call for an emotional response? This is how we make education compelling: create learning experiences that are somehow meaningful, that students can relate to, that stir emotion. Not specific or practical enough, I know. I hope to clarify in future posts....