Multimedia Use In The Classroom

Using Multimedia Effectively in the Teaching-Learning Process

DiGiacinto, D. (2007). Using multimedia effectively in the teaching-learning process.Journal of Allied Health, 36(3), 176-9. Retrieved from http://library.aurora.edu/login?url=https://search.proquest.com/docview/211080644?accountid=26354


This article discusses how "Multimedia can be defined in many ways, but this report refers to multimedia as a computer system using more than one format, such as text accompanied by an illustration or narration accompanied by an illustration." (DiGiacinto, D., pg. 176). 
Multimedia includes visually and verbally receiving information at the same time. Research has shown that students who see a visual at the same time as hearing the information will have a better chance at retaining it. This reminds me of a GLAD strategy that we were taught to use with our students during math class. Every new unit or chapter, teachers are expected to design a compendium (chart paper with all of the concepts and skills that will be taught in that next chapter). Then during the actual lesson with the students listening and watching, we trace over each section that we created on the paper using a different color marker. Between the visual and the verbal information, the brain is making a permanent picture in the mind to retain that blueprint of the concepts/skills.

The article also discussed that when using multimedia, students performed better at answering comprehension questions when the material was presented to them on the screen in a narration format instead of just sharing facts/information. The more animated the lesson using visuals, pictures, music, sound effects, the more engaged the learner is and helps the student to learn the information.