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Visual optimization of educational presentations for international students: an analysis of common design errors and development of methodological recommendations

https://doi.org/10.25587/2587-5604-2026-2-62-70

Abstract

   In the context of digitalization and internationalization of higher education, educational presentations have become one of the key tools for delivering academic content. For international students studying in a Russian-language educational environment, visually designed materials play a particularly important role, as they help reduce language barriers and support comprehension of learning content. However, teaching practice demonstrates that many educational presentations are created without considering principles of pedagogical design and cognitive characteristics of information perception, which leads to increased cognitive load and reduced learning effectiveness.

   The purpose of this study was to identify common visual design errors in educational presentations used in teaching international students and to develop methodological recommendations for their visual optimization.

   The research was based on theoretical analysis of scientific publications in pedagogy, instructional design, and cognitive psychology, as well as generalization of pedagogical experience in working with international students in higher education institutions. The results of the study revealed typical visual design errors, including excessive textual density, lack of visual hierarchy, irrational use of graphic elements, typographic violations, and excessive use of animation effects. The necessity of a systematic approach to visual design of educational materials, taking into account didactic goals and cognitive capabilities of learners, is substantiated.

   The practical significance of the study lies in the development of methodological recommendations aimed at reducing cognitive load and improving the accessibility of educational content for international students.

   The findings can be applied in higher education teaching practice, as well as in the development of digital educational resources and professional development programs for university instructors.

About the Authors

Yujin Zhu
Immanuel Kant Baltic Federal University
Russian Federation

Yujin Zhu, postgraduate student

Kaliningrad



I. D. Rudinsky
Immanuel Kant Baltic Federal University
Russian Federation

Igor D. Rudinsky, Cand. Sci. (Engineering), Dr. Sci. (Pedagogics), Professor, Head of Educational Programs

Institute of Education and Humanities; Higher School of Education and Psychology

Kaliningrad



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Review

For citations:


Zhu Yu., Rudinsky I.D. Visual optimization of educational presentations for international students: an analysis of common design errors and development of methodological recommendations. Vestnik of North-Eastern Federal University. Pedagogics. Psychology. Philosophy. 2026;(2):62-70. (In Russ.) https://doi.org/10.25587/2587-5604-2026-2-62-70

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