Understanding+Multimedia+Learning+2-2-11

Understanding Multimedia Learning: As I read the article, I continually told myself that multimedia learning is a must in the educational field, as well as the business field. I realize how crucial it is that the impact of visual channels and auditory channels be engaged for learning to take place.

To keep from overloading the channels, we must keep multimedia presentations free from extraneous information. This must be done to make sure only relevant content is presented. Presentations are more powerful when interesting and irrelevant content be omitted because of the brain's limited information processing resources.

When students are able to control the pace of the presentation, learning is more powerful. This article suggests that activating schema prior to multimedia presentations makes for a more engaging and successful presentation. Learning is enhanced when animation is used effectively. When students are viewing content using animation and have the ability to start and stop the animation, they can view it at their own pace. This allows the learner to interact with the application to further their learning where needed, requiring less processing and more learning.

When the learner is engaged in the presentation they are more receptive to the content. Using interactive characters enhances the learners drive and keeps them more engaged. Providing feedback helps the learner not only stay informed about his progress with learning, but also stay engaged.

After reading this article, I clearly remain in agreement that multimedia presentations should be presented in different ways to engage learners with different learning styles.