Substantive Post 1: Theories of Multimedia Learning
Mayerâs Cognitive Theory of Multimedia Learning was a very cathartic read for me, as it gave me a reason why I prefer to learn and teach in specific ways, while also educating me on certain pitfalls that anyone can fall into. Of the theories, I found dual-coding to be the most intuitive. As a tutor, the question was always âHow do I provide them meaningful help in the short timeframe we have?â I used to learn without visual examples, expecting understanding without explanation. Then I attempted to rectify this by jumping straight to examples. What took me longer to figure out is that both methods work best when complimented by the other. It was interesting to read that this works because the brain processes images and words in different places, which is why students have a much better time when I use two mediums of teaching in tandem. In retrospect this has always been my preferred method as well, as someone whos always preferred comic books to simple novels, enjoying the simple illustrations that came with words rather than constantly trying to paint the picture myself.
As for the principles themselves, the principles for intrinsic and germane cognitive loads were easy to follow, but not without interest I found Modality to be enlightening, as I wasnât aware of the difference between verbal and written communication in learning. I always assumed it was entirely preference, but there being a principle that leans in one specific direction was unexpected. Extrinsic load was what grabbed me the most. Specifically, what I found most surprising was the redundancy principle. Itâs common in most forms of education that the main way of teaching is essentially conveying the same thing continuously is the easiest way to transfer it to long term memory. While there is some truth to that, I was surprised to learn that redundancy in different mediums can be considered a deterrence. This principle allowed me to understand why I donât care for voice-over powerpoints. The three simultaneous ways of conveying information was overloading my memory too quickly
When it comes to my project, I definitely want to keep the relationship between text and image in mind when creating it, since Iâve always attributed myself as a visual learner. Ill definitely be trying to remove as much extrinsic load as possible, so whatever medium I use can convey itâs information meaningfully. I imagine the hardest principle to implement would be personalizing my voice within the project. Itâs difficult to come off as informal depending on what media I choose to use, and so finding a way to implement that will be a challenge.