Effective Multi-Media Tools

Multimedia tools have greatly improved the online learning experience but it is important that instructors use it in an effective manner.  “The additional options of the internet can enhance the learning experience and be used to teach to a variety of learning styles, but it also requires faculty to rethink how they teach and how they engage online students.” (Salazar, para.1)  The effective use of text, audio, and graphics promotes an engaging learning environment.  “Multimedia, in conjunction with traditional teaching materials, enhances the educational experience for online students by offering a variety of ways in which to learn and interact with content.” (Buckley, para.18)  Reviewing effective and ineffective examples provides a clearer understanding of effective multimedia products.

Effective	Ineffective
http://www.sitepoint.com/goal-setting-tracking-tools/	http://voices.yahoo.com/the-top-10-online-goal-setting-tracking-tools-9037665.html
Extensive text and explanations with links	Extensive text and explanations with links
Graphics that match the written content	No graphics

Students will be much less likely to gain information and value from ineffective multimedia products.  Effective multimedia tools are engaging and present information in a manner that is not only informative but interesting.

References:

Buckley, W., & Smith, A. (2007). Application of multimedia technologies to enhance distance learning. RE:View, 39(2), 57-65. Retrieved from http://search.proquest.com/docview/222962615?accountid=35812

Salazar, J. (2010). Staying connected: Online education engagement and retention using educational technology tools. Clinical Laboratory Science, 23(3), 6-3_53,3_54,3_55,3_56,3_57,3_58. Retrieved from http://search.proquest.com/docview/759253282?accountid=35812