How to Use Feature Integration Theory in the Classroom
Feature integration is a theory of attention and perception initially described by Anne M. Tresiman and Garry Gelade about 1980. Treisman and Gelade theorized that humans perceive objects according to their individual features before perceiving the object as a whole. Feature Integration Theory (FIT) also maintains that perception and attention to objects depends upon the similarity, number, and spatial orientation of surrounding objects or distractors. Humans can multitask when those tasks are simple, the theory says, but as tasks become more complicated, greater attention is required. Educators can use knowledge of FIT to develop lessons and activities in the classroom.
Instructions
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Reduce visual distractions in the classroom. Keep bulletin boards and displays simple and meaningful.
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Reduce the number of items on an assignment page or work sheet.
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Utilize reading guides with students. A reading guide usually is a card or sheet of paper with a "window" or visual opening through which a single sentence, question, or problem can be seen. Extraneous material is blocked by the guide to reduce distraction.
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Use highlighting markers to distinguish particular information, such as: math computation signs and symbols, vocabulary words in text, numbers or key words in story problems, or odd/even numbered questions.
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Fold work sheets or tests in half so only half the visual information is visible to a student at any one time.
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Use bold text or italics to emphasize key words or phrases in text, assignments, or tests.
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Write questions, problems, or information in two alternating colors that visually are distinctive, such as red and black.
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Cut work sheets or tests into individual questions or problems. Allow students to complete them separately, then combine them into a whole.
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Tips & Warnings
Reading guides are available commercially or easily can be made.
If highlighting a math computation sheet with different operations, such as addition and subtraction, highlight the different signs in different colors. For example, mark plus signs with yellow and minus signs with green. Be sure the two colors are distinctive.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit school image by Jerome Dancette from Fotolia.com
