Integrated Text and Visuals
With the technique, Integrated Text and Visuals, you use resources such as labelled diagrams, timelines, cartoon strips, graphic organisers and infographics so written words are complemented by visuals (and vice versa).
Why use this technique?
Integrated Text and Visuals utilises dual coding: when words and visuals are presented together, we create a double memory trace. This makes knowledge more secure and easier to retrieve from long-term memory.
Notes and tips
When using labelled diagrams, focus on ensuring the text and images are closely aligned, to avoid splitting attention unnecessarily. For example, avoid labelled diagrams like this (the text and visuals are separate)…
…and focus on labelled diagrams like this (the text and visuals are integrated)…
The second version places less extraneous load on students’ working memories, meaning they have more capacity to think.
Focused reflection
How well do you currently use this technique?
Is it a technique you will focus on developing?
If so, what are the key features you will focus on (things to do, and not do)?