The influence of gestures and modal density on comprehension and memory
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2018-08-15
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en
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Abstract
This thesis investigates the effect of gestures and modal density on comprehensibility and memory of action sequences. The following research questions are explored: “To what extent does the perception of gestures and multiple additional modes of communication influence comprehensibility of action sequences?”, and “To what extent does the perception of gestures and multiple additional modes of communication influence memory of action sequences?”.
Previous research has mainly focussed on gestures as an additional mode of communication alongside speech output causing for better memory rettention because they contribute to the communication of semantic information. However, this thesis will try to show that the increase in memory retention is caused by an increase in the amount of attention paid. Thus, an increase in modal density will cause for an increase in memory retention. The hypotheses are tested with an experiment consisting of two testing moments. Data collected using a question list is analysed by means of a one-way between groups ANOVA. Results show that comprehension is higher when gestures are used alongside speech, but that multiple additional modes obstruct comprehension, because they do not communicate semantic information. No significant impact of modal density on memory was found. Further research should be conducted with native speakers of English and a larger sample size in order to conclude anything with more certainty.
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