Chapter 1: Visual Displays and Learning: Theoretical and Practical Considerations

We provide a rationale for this volume, summarize each of the chapters, discuss general design principles for visual displays, and make four recommendations for future research. We state five goals for the volume. A summary of each chapter is provided and linked to these goals. We also discuss five information-processing functions of visual displays, including schema activation, reduction of cognitive load, provision of new information, conceptual integration, and promotion of deeper conceptual understanding and transfer to new settings. Each of these functions is discussed in detail within the chapters included in the volume. We conclude with four recommendations for future research.