We can make our graphics as simple and concise as possible. It should also include all the information we want our students to know.
Only providing graphics that strengthen and reinforce the topic under discussion is a key method of ensuring that the graphics applied are needed and not just fillers.
I have seen this in the classroom. Everytime I get too excited about a fantastic powerpoint presentation, they go to sleep. But, showing them actual video of Terri Schiavo and using that as a precursor for classroom discussion, pure gold! I think the answer will come from trial and error. Seeing what works and then moving forward appropriately.
Corinne:
Striving for balance in th use of multimedia is important; however, a more important consideration is that the media supports the content to which it is referenced.
Satohan
I think it's especially important to not get carried away with one type of media because we have to remember that every student learns differently. And if we load our courses with tons of visuals, or audio clips, or whatever, without the appropriate blend, we will run into trouble because we won't be considering individual differences enough.
Larry:
While students may adapt to each Instructor's presentation style, I believe there is adequate evidence to support that instructional, media, interactive, and presentation strategies all add to the ease with which the learning outcomes are achieved and the degree to which the learning is retained. E-learning thrives when it is multisensory.
Satrohan
Christine:
This is th best approach. It reduces the production costs. Moreover, students can easily sight when we use too many "bells and whistles" towards no valid learning ends.
Satrohan
With our program, we have instructors that use most if not all of the platform's capabilities or resorces, and then we have instructors that use the very minimum. I question the need for an elaborate presentation of content. Our students seem to adapt to each teacher's presentation. I'm hoping the end results are the same, ie, learning the content being delivered.
I agree to apply only that which is necessary to support the topic under discussion.
Debra:
One of the standing rules I recommend for the use of any media component; be it a simple line graphic, or a flash animation sequence; is for the media to support the content it is referencing. Be judicious; apply only that which is necessary to support the topic under discussion.
Satrohan
