Peter Niu
Patterns / Multimedia Learning

Contiguity

Align words to corresponding graphics

Reference: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10648-018-9435-9

Align words to corresponding graphics

Use visuals that are as simple as possible to promote understanding of novices

This diagram from Twig Education simplifies the composition of blood for middle school learners.

spacial contiguity, Twig

Avoid covering or separating information such as feedback on a learner’s question response that must be integrated for learning

This Brilliant.org quiz places feedback directly under the question, and within the same viewport as the explanatory graphic.

contiguity principle, feedback, brilliant.org

Contiguity principle applies to assessments too!

This Coursera quiz embeds SQL code submission directly within the quiz UI, so that users don’t have to switch browser windows.

contiguity, coursera

Place text near the corresponding graphic on the screen

YouTuber Melissa Maribel demonstrates the steps in naming alkalines with nothing more than appropriately placed cut-out labels and narration.

contiguity, melissamaribel

Do not allow temporal separation of visuals and audio that describes the visuals

In this Epic! story, each word is highlighted on screen as it is narrated by a narrator.

contiguitiny, epic

Keep feedback close to submitted answers.

This Itza.io sorting activity provides immediate feedback by labelling each answer entry with a color-coded smiley face. Green, smiling faces are correct. Feedback is immediate and intuitive.

contiguity, itza

Place labels on the screen rather than in legends

This chart places labels right next to the line, instead of creating a separate label on the margins.

contiguity, labels