Month: January 2021

It is important to learn learning theories in class as they describe how we understand information. Dual coding theory takes into account that we take in information using our eyes and ears. The eyes take in the visuals/images while the ears take in sounds/auditory stimuli. The theory postulates that the brain has two short term memory channels: visual and auditory channels. Information is first stored in these short-term channels before it can be transmitted to the long-term channels. When taking too much information, the short-term channels fill-up and an individual cannot take in more information. Nonetheless, when the brain is able to make a connection between the visuals it is being fed and the sounds it is hearing, one is able to understand and recall the information later. With this in mind, the dual coding theory has changed the way I create power point presentation. Based on the redundancy principle, I can now use either images or texts on one slide and not both the image and long sentences coupled with an audio explanation. This perspective is based on the fact that texts are taken in through the visual channel and mixing texts, images and audios in the same slide overwhelms the visual channels and interferes with comprehension. Based on the coherence and personalization principles of dual coding theory, I can now eliminate unnecessary stimuli from the slides and using personal tone that includes the use of “I”, “you” and “we” to set an informal conversation with learners.

One thing that I hope to get out of this class is the skills of creating prototype interactive multimedia learning objects. The introduction to interactive multimedia learning object in this week’s readings was intriguing and made me develop an interest in knowing how to create interactive multimedia learning objects which may include info-graphics, screen-casts, virtual reality tours and presentation slides. However, I am unsure of assignment 4 which is a group project. Are we required to meet physically to plan as a group or we can do everything online? That aside, the example of Rich’s son playing a web-based game is a perfect example of an interactive multimedia learning object which integrates elements of graphic design and information technology in learning. Virtual reality tour is an interactive multimedia learning object that was impactful in my learning experience. It enhanced the learning process and engagement in a certain course I took in first year of campus. The professor created a virtual world to explain a phenomenon to its entirety. In a certain language class, the instructor liked using flip charts to explain course concepts; I found the use of flip charts interactive as the instructor was able to explain concepts using images. In previous classes, I have participated in group presentations using power point slides; this has equipped me with skills of creating interactive slides. From this week’s videos and reading, I have learned that multimedia learning objects allows learners to interact with the course content and increases comprehension.