What is visual literacy?

From: Sims, Ellen, O'Leary, Rose, Cook, Julian and Batland, Gill. (2002) Visual Literacy: What is it and Do we need it to use learning technology efficiency. Here is a list of four requirements for good visual literacy taken from this article. 'a) (Can ) discriminate, and make sense of visual objects as a part of a visual acuity, b) create static and dynamic visible objects effectively in a defined space. c) comprehend and appreciate the visual testaments of others. d) conjure objects in the mind's eye.' Sim's definition for visual literacy is: visual literacy= 'images communicate meaning and literacy means being able to read and compose.' The article ended with 'Can visual literacy be taught and learned?' So to teach is to impart the skills of how to interpret images and how to make images, and how to use images in order to get across an idea.