“Techniques That Reduce Extraneous Cognitive Load and Manage Intrinsic Cognitive Load during Multimedia Learning”
Multimedia learning is based on use of words and pictures, which are presented via computers. It should be formed on solid conceptual knowledge that is applicable to the subject matter. Below please see the figure that illustrates the cognitive theory of multimedia learning:
Multimedia learning is a significant way of conveying information. Sounds and images capture students’ attention and make discussed topics easy to comprehend. It is also important to point out that learners’ meet various obstacles to multimedia learning, which take place when the material contains extraneous material (material includes non-essential information in lesson) or it is inadequately laid out. Another problem that learners have is essential overload that can occur with multimedia learning. It happens, when students do not have relevant prior knowledge; when the material is complex and unfamiliar; the material is presented at a very fast pace.
“Meaningful learning depends on holding corresponding words and pictures in working memory at the same time” ( Moreno, Mayer, p. 140). That is the reason why overloading the working memory unables learning. Research shows that students, who received a narrated animation in which corresponding segments of the narration and animation were presented at the same time, comprehended material better that those, who listed to the narration before or after the animation.
Multimedia learning is a significant new way of transmitting knowledge. It helps students comprehend new information using sounds, animations and words. The computer based learning still needs to be worked on and perfected, because of its extensive cognitive load. The multimedia lessons should be design and planned accordingly, so that the working memory is not loaded with irrelevant information. The lectures should show narrations and animations at the same time, they should be also based on students’ prior knowledge and convey only important information.
Great summary of the key points within the article. I agree, that only important information should be conveyed because on average student’s mind tend to wander. So, the clearer and more precise the podcast the more effective learning can be.
ReplyDeleteYour comment on information being very fast when a learner has no prior knowledge is accurate and familiar. It is important for a teacher to understand the knowledge base of the student. Excellent post.
ReplyDeleteI think your post is extremely informative. I believe that putting the diagram in, the reader can see exactly what you mean. You hit on all the key points of the reading. Multimedia has many pros as well as cons and here you explained them very well.
ReplyDeleteI enojoyed your post how you touched on alot of the key points of the article. I also agree with Sabrina about including the diagram. It helps demonstrates the cognitive thinking, visuals are always helping when explaining an idea.
ReplyDeleteI agree, that incorporating multimedia tools in educational learning is a very good idea, but only up to a certain point. As teachers we should keep in mind, what we present to our learners and keep in mind how much of it will be effective to them.
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