Coherence theory

Definition

Coherence theory is a philosophical concept that suggests that the truth of a statement is determined by its coherence with a set of beliefs or propositions. In the context of discourse processing, it highlights how understanding a text relies on the interrelatedness and logical connections among various statements, enabling readers to create a mental model of the information presented.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Coherence theory emphasizes the importance of logical relationships between statements in understanding language, making it essential for effective communication.
2. In discourse processing, coherence aids readers in connecting ideas, allowing them to build a cohesive mental representation of the text.
3. Readers rely on coherence to interpret ambiguous or incomplete information by using background knowledge and context to make sense of what they read.
4. Coherence can be assessed through both local (sentence-to-sentence) and global (overall text structure) connections, influencing how well a reader comprehends the material.
5. The theory suggests that cognitive processing during reading involves actively organizing information, leading to deeper comprehension and retention of the material.

Review Questions

• How does coherence theory enhance our understanding of textual comprehension during reading?
  • Coherence theory enhances understanding by emphasizing the need for logical connections among statements within a text. When readers identify these relationships, they can integrate new information with their existing knowledge, creating a more cohesive understanding of the material. This process allows readers to actively engage with the text, facilitating better retention and comprehension.
• Discuss how inferencing plays a role in coherence theory and its impact on discourse processing.
  • Inferencing is crucial to coherence theory as it enables readers to draw connections between disparate pieces of information within a text. When faced with ambiguous or incomplete statements, readers use inferencing to fill in gaps and create coherence. This ability enhances discourse processing by allowing readers to construct meaningful interpretations based on the logical relationships they identify, leading to more effective comprehension.
• Evaluate the implications of coherence theory for developing effective reading strategies in educational settings.
  • Coherence theory has significant implications for developing reading strategies as it highlights the need for teaching students how to recognize and create connections within texts. By focusing on enhancing textual coherence through structured activities like summarization and questioning, educators can improve students' inferencing skills and encourage them to build mental models. This approach not only aids comprehension but also fosters critical thinking, enabling students to engage with complex texts more effectively.

Related terms

textual coherence: The quality that makes a text understandable and meaningful, achieved through logical connections between ideas and consistency in themes.

inferencing: The process of drawing conclusions based on evidence and reasoning, which helps readers fill in gaps and enhance understanding of a text.

mental models: Cognitive representations that individuals create to organize and understand information from discourse, reflecting their interpretation of the text's meaning.