Dual-Coded Material
Using explanatory visual materials to explain a topic is synonymous with the dual coding strategy. This method is significant as it operations with more than one cognitive pathway, thus, helping educators to facilitate the processing and storing of information by the students through text and image integration.
The advantages of dual-coded material employed in teaching are better understand and remember of the data provided, because it activates the verbal and visual processing sections in the brain at the same time. A case in point is a textbook in which diagrams are situated next to the related text; through these students would be able to mentally picture the data better, hence would grasp complex concepts.
The utilization of dual-coded materials is possible in a wide range of learning contexts like classrooms, cyberspace, and training spaces. For example, teachers may design slides that put together spoken explanations and corresponding visual elements or videos while e-learning platforms may insert animations and infographics to go with the text and thus, enhance the participation of all learners.
Many examples of dual-coded resources are featured in this list, such as illustrated textbooks, infographics, educational videos, and interactive e-learning modules. To illustrate, a science book that has labeled diagrams of the human body next to detailed descriptions would be like the electronic version of the textbook, where students can both connect the textual information with visual representations and have a better understanding.
The dual-coded material being able to boost learning is not always the case. Cognitive overload is the main problem that can arise for busy learners when they have to read too much screen information and at the same time view multimedia at once. A case in point is the situation where a talk has a lot of images and visuals that are too complex plus detailed text, which could confuse learners and not help them. Thus, it is essential that the information is balanced.