This blog post will discuss Dual Coding Theory and how it affects the creation of PowerPoint presentations. First, a little background knowledge on myself regarding PowerPoint. I find that when it comes to creating PowerPoints whether it be for school or work, there’s just too much useless information. This is most likely the result of trying to get as much facts and data points into one slide. Which pondering it now… is not effective whatsoever. An effective method of knowledge transfer through PowerPoint would involve using Dual Coding Theory.
Dual Coding Theory is the idea that combining words (Verbal) and images (Visual) to increase memory and retention of topics. Research indicates that combining these two channels of communication allows learners to retain more if only one of the channels was utilized. This process is focused on how the brain processes information, rather than determining how the learner prefers to view information.
From personal experience, clear and concise points always stuck with me. Similar to Dual Coding Theory, I always found in high school and throughout University, that by adding visuals that match with the topics in discussion always helped me better retain that information in the long run. After reading articles on Dual Coding Theory and its application on presentable information, I have finally understood what it means to retain more information while decreasing our cognitive load.
First and foremost, Dual Coding Theory does not care about how aesthetically pleasing a presentation can be. The main focus is getting the information across with minimal distractions. Theres no need for additional explanation, proofs, weird symbols, colours/symbols that do not match. This will only serve to distract the learner at retaining the most important points. I strongly believe that Dual Coding proves to be a very effective means of knowledge transfer, and should be implemented into more presentations so that we can all benefit.
Please view my attached presentation on Dual Coding Theory and its further applications in PowerPoint.
2021-05-20 at 12:42 pm
https://jstruch.opened.ca/2021/05/19/how-we-learn/
Jayne,
Thank you for the insightful post! I enjoyed how you first began by discussing the main goal of education, and the importance of understanding how people think and retain information in a classroom setting. I could not agree more with your point on utilizing aids for all learners. I strongly believe that in order to increases our chances of long term retention, we must start implementing more images, videos, and the follow the fundamental principles of Multimedia Learning. Furthermore, your discussion on Dual Coding Theory is fantastic. You clearly express the Dual Coding Theory is all about simplicity, and the need to cut out images or text which could distract the learner from the intended outcomes. A very nice transition into the next part discussing the mess that PowerPoint can create when creating presentations. I completely agree with on an engagement piece that would have kept you focused. I learn the same way, I need something, as you said to “grab and hold my attention” because if not, no focus whatsoever. The ability to represent information in different ways is powerful, and in most cases is needed for people to effectively retain information.
Also, you’re Prezi was fantastic and simple! Only displayed relevant information and wasn’t cluttered. Also have to mention, I really appreciate the bear photos you included, very adorable.
Thanks!
2021-05-23 at 11:40 am
Hi Omar,
I found your blog post really interesting to read. I feel like it is explained in such a way that gets the important information across using the proper vocabulary but also is worded in such a way that is easy to understand for those of us that are not overly familiar with Duel Coding Theory.
It is also interesting to see people who have different styles of learning. I am mainly a visual learner so seeing how you learn was something that stood out for me.
2021-05-23 at 9:30 pm
Awesome work Omar! Your experiences seem to align with theory well here. Also I see you applied dual coding to your attached PowerPoint. Hope you can use some of these concepts to help you in the future too.