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MENTAL MODEL · M8172

Dual Coding Theory

Dual Coding Theory
Learn & MetacognitionHigh supportCognitive Psychology
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Updated 2026-08-10

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INTRODUCTION

English translation pending.

CORE DEFINITION

Paivio's dual coding theory holds that memory stores information in two independent but interconnected systems: a verbal system for language and a non-verbal system for images and spatial representation. The practical consequence is that material encoded through both systems is recalled better than material encoded through either alone, because retrieval has two independent routes available and either one is sufficient to reach the content.

SCAFFOLDING EFFECT

psychology

Reduce cognitive load

- Say and show: present the same content as words and as an image. - Bridge the two: make the picture and the text prompt each other. - Rehearse both channels: review in each representation separately.

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Anchor fast decisions

The two coding systems are functionally independent, so an item stored in both has two retrieval paths rather than one. When one path is degraded or blocked the other still reaches the content, which is the mechanism by which dual encoding raises recall rather than merely making the study session feel richer.

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Source support: Explicit

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    en.wikipedia.orghttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dual-coding_theoryZH · Explicit
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