The coherence principle, as defined by Mayer, essentially states that people learn better when unnecessary elements are removed from a presentation. This means that extraneous words, pictures, and sounds can actually hinder the learning process.
Understanding the Coherence Principle
The principle centers around the idea that cognitive load should be kept low, allowing the learner to focus on the relevant material. When extraneous details are present, learners have to process more information, which can distract them from the key learning objectives. The aim is for the learning material to be coherent, meaning it flows logically and is easy to follow.
Key Components of Coherence
Here's a breakdown of how the coherence principle works:
- Eliminating Redundancy: Avoid repeating information in different forms. For example, don't show the same text on screen that is being narrated.
- Removing Distracting Elements: Unnecessary graphics, animations, or music can pull attention away from the core content.
- Focusing on Relevance: Every element in a presentation should directly contribute to the learning goal.
- Logical Flow: Ensure the content is structured in a way that is easy for the learner to understand and follow.
Examples of Coherence in Action
| Scenario | Incoherent Example | Coherent Example |
|---|---|---|
| Instructional Video | Video has upbeat background music, animated transitions, and lengthy text on screen, while the narrator provides detailed explanations. | Video has a clean background, simple transitions, and visuals that directly support the narration. |
| Online Presentation | Text-heavy slides with irrelevant stock photos that do not illustrate the message. | Slides with minimal text and directly related visuals. |
| Software Training Tutorial | Tutorial uses a complex user interface with many features that are not related to the task. | Tutorial highlights only the necessary steps and tools for completing the given task. |
How to Apply the Coherence Principle
Here are some practical steps to implement the coherence principle:
- Identify Core Concepts: Determine the essential information that learners need to grasp.
- Reduce Clutter: Remove anything that doesn't directly support the core concepts, whether it's text, graphics, or sounds.
- Use Visuals Wisely: Visuals should be relevant and add to understanding, not just for decoration.
- Prioritize Clarity: Make sure the information flows logically.
- User Testing: Test your materials with your target audience to see if the material is easy to follow.
By adhering to the coherence principle, educators and content creators can significantly enhance learning outcomes by minimizing distractions and maximizing focus on relevant information.
