Week 8 Reflection – Multimedia & Learning Design

This week we talked about how we can use multimedia strategies to support learning. This idea is rooted in the psychology concept of the “Dual-Code” theory, which states that information is encoded more effectively when it is received both auditorily and visually. I can definitely say I’ve experienced this first-hand when watching TV. Although English is my first language, it’s almost like I can’t hear without subtitles. The lecture this week focused on how to use images, videos, and technology in general to promote pedagogy

Dual-code theory video – Simple Show

SAMR is a model about how learning can expand using technology. SAMR comes from:

  • Substitution – Using technology as a direct substitute for a tool with no functional change
  • Augmentation – Technology acts as a tool substitute with functional improvement
  • Modification – tech allows for significant task redesign 
  • Redefinition  – tech allows for the creation of new tasks, previously inconceivable 
SAMR Model video – John Spencer

I’ve embedding this YouTube video as the SAMR section of lecture kind of went above my head.

Michael looked like he was having a bit too much fun with the green screen effect using zoom, so I decided to jump on the bandwagon:

All in all, I think there are many fun ways to incorporate photos, videos, gifs, and just general graphic design in education. I think having multimedia literacy is important for enriching the student learning experience by not only making things more accessible for visual learners, or by utilising the dual-code theory, but also for increasing engagement and general curiosity about a topic.