12 Principles of Multimedia Learning: Part 3

Summary

This video script outlines four principles to enhance learning through multimedia. Principle nine emphasizes using words and pictures together for better retention. Principle ten suggests using a conversational tone to connect with learners. Principle eleven recommends using a human voice for narration over AI voices. Lastly, principle twelve advises caution with speaker images to avoid distractions from the learning content.

Takeaways

• 🧠 Germain load refers to the cognitive effort involved in creating permanent knowledge in long-term memory.
• 🖼️ The multimedia principle: People learn better from words and pictures together rather than words alone.
• 📊 Use images to enhance or clarify the lesson but ensure they are relevant to the topic.
• 🗣️ The personalization principle: Informal and conversational tones improve learning compared to formal language.
• 👩‍🏫 Adjust language based on the learner’s age and use simple, casual expressions with first and second-person pronouns.
• 🎙️ The voice principle: Human voice narration is better for learning than AI-generated voices.
• 🎤 Record narration in a quiet space with an external microphone for better audio quality.
• 👤 The image principle: The speaker’s image does not always improve learning and may sometimes distract learners.
• 📹 Avoid including video of yourself during asynchronous multimedia lessons when pictures and words are present.
• 📚 Use a plain background with minimal distractions if showing yourself on-screen, especially in video lessons.

Q & A

What is the term for the work put into creating a permanent storage of knowledge in the long-term memory?

The term is 'main load' or 'germane load'.

According to the multimedia principle, what combination of elements is most effective for learning?

Combining words and pictures is more effective for learning than using words alone.

How should images be used in multimedia presentations to enhance learning?

Images should be used to illustrate key points and should enhance or clarify the meaning of the topic or lesson.

What is the personalization principle in the context of learning?

The personalization principle suggests that people learn best from a more informal, conversational voice rather than a formal one.

How can the language used in multimedia presentations be adjusted to connect better with learners?

The language should be simple and casual, avoiding complex words or overly professional text, and using first and second pronouns like 'you', 'I', and 'we'.

Why is a human voice preferred over a computer voice for narration in multimedia presentations?

A human voice is more relatable and engaging, which aids in better learning compared to computer-generated voices.

What are some tips for recording high-quality narration for multimedia presentations?

Find a quiet space to record, and consider using an external microphone for better audio quality.

What does the image principle suggest about including a speaker's image in multimedia presentations?

The image principle indicates that including a speaker's image does not necessarily improve learning and can sometimes be a distraction.

When might it be appropriate to include a speaker's image in a multimedia presentation?

It might be appropriate when there are no words or pictures on the screen, or if the speaker wants to be visible to the learners.

How does Khan Academy apply the multimedia principle in its lessons?

Khan Academy uses the teacher's voice to guide learners through the lesson content without showing the instructor's image on the screen.

What background should be used when including a speaker's image to minimize distractions?

A plain background that removes clutter and non-essential items should be used to minimize distractions.