E-Learning and the Science of Instruction

Summary of Chapter 4:Contiguity PrincipleSource: Clark & Mayer 2008

Jessica KluntzLHDT 548

Chapter 4: Applying the Contiguity Principle

Includes…• Evidence for the best placement of text

and graphics on the screen• Evidence for sequencing of text or audio in

conjunction with visuals• Effective and ineffective applications of the

contiguity principle, as well as the psychological basis for the results

Contiguity Principle

People learn more deeply when corresponding printed words and graphics are placed close to one another on the screen or when spoken words and graphics are presented at the same time.

Contiguity Principle Videohttp://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xrkokpItL8A&feature=related

Contiguity Principle 1Place Printed Words Near Corresponding Graphics

On-screen words should be placed near the parts of the on-screen graphics to which they refer.

Daffodil

Contiguity Principle 1

Question

Why do you think this principle is valid?

Practice!

Choose the best use of the contiguity principle from the two pictures provided.

Option 1

Apple, Orange, and Bananas

Option 2

Apple Orange Bananas

Option 1

Hit the * key to be directed to reception.

Option 2

Hit the * key to be directed to reception.

Contiguity Principle 2Synchronizing Spoken Words with Graphics

Corresponding graphics and spoken words

should be presented at the same time.

Contiguity Principle 2

Question

Why do you think this principle is valid?

Contiguity Principle 2Examples of contiguity principle 2 in action:

How the Heart Workshttp://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WXwYYsi6z7Q

Human Anatomy - Heart circulatory system http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9M959pyzatc&feature=related

Review of the Contiguity Principle

• People learn more deeply when corresponding printed words and graphics are placed close to one another on the screen or when spoken words and graphics are presented at the same time.

• On-screen words should be placed near the parts of the on-screen graphics to which they refer.

• Corresponding graphics and spoken words should be presented at the same time.

Questions?