Dual coding theory and computer education: some media experiments to examine the effects of different media on learning

Dual Coding Theory has quite specific predictions about how information in different media is stored, manipulated and recalled. Different combinations of media are expected to have significant effects upon the recall and retention of information. This obviously may have important consequences in the design of computer-based programmes. The paper describes an experimental approach which has been developed using the Statistical domain in which the presentation media have been varied (Text only, Text and Diagrams and Diagrams with Voice-over). The results are compared with Dual Coding theory predictions and the effects of Student Learning Style explored.