Using Multimedia to Augment Limited Instructional Time and Support Learning in Professional Education Coursework

• In Event: Roundtable Session 22
  In Roundtable Session: Multimedia Design Choices That Improve Learning

Abstract

This paper presents findings about Content Acquisition Podcasts (CAPs), a simple, cost-effective instructional delivery system that operationalizes Mayer’s cognitive theory of multimedia learning to support the delivery of information for a variety of content areas. CAPs constrain and focus new information to optimize memory and retention based on the Triarchic Model of Cognitive Load (DeLeeuw & Mayer, 2008). In this study, undergraduates who were randomly assigned to watch CAPs significantly outperformed other students who were given unlimited time to read the course textbook on a measure of knowledge across two experiments. Teacher educators can easily create CAPs for their classrooms using readily available presentation and screencasting software.

Authors

• Cathy Newman Thomas, University of Missouri

• Michael J. Kennedy, University of Virginia