Helping Readers Connect Text and Visuals in Sequential Procedural Instruction: Developing Reader Comprehension
Authors: Roy, Debopriyo; Grice, Roger
Source: Technical Communication, Volume 51, Number 4, November 2004 , pp. 517-525(9)
Publisher: Society for Technical Communication
Key:
- Free Content
- New Content
- Subscribed Content
- Free Trial Content
Abstract:
When presented with sequential procedures for a complex system containing text and graphics, readers often lose the structural and functional connectivity among graphics. This failure hinders the process of mental animation needed for users to understand the logical order of the procedures steps if there are no interim frames shown graphically. However, the readers understanding of spatial relationships can be facilitated if certain conventions are followed. Some of the major recommendations identified for graphics and text are identifying objects in an assembled structure, conforming to a compromised object-centered or body-centered viewpoint based on need, and stating a clear goal plan early in the text presentation. Following these conventions helps the reader transition between subassemblies logically, which our research identified as a major problem area for many readers.Document Type: Journal article
Key:
- Free Content
- New Content
- Subscribed Content
- Free Trial Content

Click here for Page Help