An investigation into the use of multimedia for electronic learning

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Oledzki, M.R., 2005. An investigation into the use of multimedia for electronic learning. MPhil, Nottingham Trent University.

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Abstract

Electronic learning (e-learning) has been very much in vogue over the last few years and has stimulated significant interest from groups of various backgrounds. This heightened state of interest in the field of e-learning has caused many companies, organizations and institutions to try to rapidly develop and implement newly accessible learning technologies in an attempt to capitalize on the perceived market potential. To a large degree, this has led to fundamental learning theories being sidelined and the focus being set on the more glamorous technologies. Against this background, the work presented here is concerned with an investigation into the use of learning technologies within education and commercial training, specifically focusing on how multimedia is used within these learning technologies and the effects of multimedia in general within electronic learning. This is facilitated by a series of experimentations with a custom designed multimedia learning package, based on the subject of visual perception.

The experimental learning material is designed, authored, and produced using a number of commercially available multimedia authoring packages, such as 3D Studio Max, Macromedia Director & Flash, Adobe Photoshop & Illustrator. The production is modelled on the commonly used instructional system design methodology model: Analysis, Design, Development, Integration and Evaluation (ADDIE). The multimedia learning material comprises of 3- dimensional models that are animated, and explanatory audio narration. The multimedia learning material is compared against a more traditional text and illustration based learning material using pre and posttest evaluations. Attitude questionnaires and feedback forms are employed to collect participants' opinions for additional context. The results are presented and statistically analyzed.

The results of the research, if somewhat limited in context, show that no significant difference is recorded between participants studying the multimedia learning material and those studying the traditional learning material. This important result is discussed in relation to fundamental learning theories, highlighting the apparent negative benefit of using animation and audio based learning material. However, when taken into context, the results are used as a basis for a more positive and potentially useful discussion of the factors that influence multimedia learning; namely-motivation of the learning material as an positive effect, using audio within multimedia learning & presentations, material & teacher regulation, learning environments and the attitudes of participants toward multimedia material.

Item Type:

Thesis

Creators:

Oledzki, M.R.

Date:

2005

ISBN:

9781369316919

Identifiers: