# 4.2 Generating images

Images, whether through descriptions or actual visuals, are a really important part of storytelling. Sometimes these images are so strong that they frame how we act and see, becoming cliches that we can unknowingly embody. A classic example is the image of ‘teacher’ as positioned to the front of a class, using a board to impart knowledge, which can often be the reference point for how student teachers begin to understand their role. So, using different images or even creating (through artwork or photography) different images of future practices ‘intentionally generates new thinking and doing as a basis for moving toward the future’ (Watkins, Mohr and Ralph, 2011, p. 43).

## Activity 7 Finding new images

Allow a minimum of 20 minutes

- Act as a photographer/videographer: Who is already doing something different that interests you? What practices are you engaged in that you think are interesting or challenge commonly held images of practices?
- Act as a practice finder: Who is writing/sharing/talking about practices in a different way? What images are they using to support their thinking (remembering they may be describing images with words rather than showing)? You may find these practices via social media, blogs, magazine articles or via colleagues.
- Review your collection of photos and videos. How do they help you imagine aspects of these practices that could be built on or developed?

You will now go on to consider what emerging ideas, exciting opportunities or practices you wish to explore more, and take into the rest of this course.

OpenLearn - An appreciative approach to inquiry
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