Learning media
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The Role of Learning Media in Education
No Specific Medium Offers Unique Learning Benefits
Research consistently shows that no single medium inherently offers unique learning benefits over others. Studies have demonstrated that performance improvements attributed to specific media are often due to uncontrolled variables such as instructional methods and novelty effects rather than the media itself. This suggests that the effectiveness of learning media is more about how it is used rather than the medium itself.
Learning with Various Media Types
Books, Television, Computers, and Multimedia
Different media types, including books, television, computers, and multimedia environments, have unique characteristics that influence learning. These media interact with learner and task characteristics to shape mental representations and cognitive processes. For instance, multimedia environments can enhance the formation and modification of mental models by leveraging their symbol systems and processing capabilities.
Digital Media for Young Children
Digital media for young children, such as computer games, handheld devices, and interactive toys, have shown potential in improving various skills, including problem-solving, reading, and mathematics. However, many popular digital media products for young children lack rigorous testing, leaving their benefits and drawbacks uncertain.
Multimedia Learning Principles
Deep Learning from Words and Pictures
Multimedia learning, which involves combining words and pictures, can lead to deeper learning compared to using words alone. Research has identified several principles that enhance learning across different media:
- Multimedia Effect: Students learn more deeply from words and pictures than from words alone.
- Coherence Effect: Learning is improved when extraneous material is excluded.
- Spatial Contiguity Effect: Placing printed words near corresponding pictures enhances learning.
- Personalization Effect: Conversational style presentation of words improves learning.
Informal Learning with Social Media
Knowledge Maturing
Social media can support informal learning in the workplace by facilitating knowledge maturing. This involves designing tools that embed interactions within digitally mediated work contexts. For example, a prototype for "people tagging for organizational development" has shown promise in supporting informal learning and knowledge maturing.
Digital Learning Media
Articulate Storyline
The Articulate Storyline application is an interactive multimedia tool that can enhance learning by making it more engaging and accessible. Validation studies have shown that it is effective and suitable for use in educational settings, particularly for teaching complex subjects like physics.
Web-Based Learning Systems
Web-based learning media offer flexibility in terms of time and place, making the learning process more accessible and interactive. These systems can help overcome challenges in understanding material by providing varied and easy-to-understand content.
Creative Video as Learning Media
Canva Application
Creating learning media through creative videos using applications like Canva can facilitate the teaching process. Canva offers features, designs, and templates that make it easy for teachers to develop engaging and educational content, enhancing the overall learning experience.
Conclusion
The effectiveness of learning media is not tied to the medium itself but rather to how it is utilized. Various media types, from traditional books to advanced digital platforms, can enhance learning when used appropriately. Principles of multimedia learning, the potential of digital media for young children, and the role of social media in informal learning all highlight the diverse ways in which media can support education. As technology continues to evolve, so too will the methods and tools available for enhancing learning experiences.
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