Project WRITE

New Research on Multimedia Learning

April 23, 2008

As we begin our discussion of reading and writing with newer literacies tonight, this eSchoolNews article might be a useful reference point:

Top News – Analysis: How multimedia can improve learning

An analysis of existing research supports a notion that already has begun to transform instruction in schools from coast to coast: that multimodal learning–using many modes and strategies that cater to individual learners’ needs and capacities–is more effective than traditional, unimodal learning, which uses a single mode or strategy.

According to a new report commissioned by Cisco Systems, adding visuals to verbal (textual and/or auditory) instruction can result in significant gains in basic or higher-order learning, if applied appropriately. Students using a well-designed combination of visuals and text learn more than students who use only text, the report says.

It also provides insights into when interactivity strengthens the multimodal learning of moderate to complex topics, and when it’s advantageous for students to work individually when learning.

Entry Filed under: Multimedia, News, Research. Tags: Research.