Multimedia Materials for Patient Education Increase Confidence and Explanation Quality

• In Event: 34.080 - Poster Session 7
  In Poster Session: 34.080-2 - Principles of Cognition and Multimedia Design

Abstract

The Multimedia Principle (e.g., Mayer, 2009) is a well-known and robust finding in cognitive science: visuals and text combined support better learning than text alone. However, most studies on the multimedia principle have targeted relatively long, academic learning materials in formal learning contexts. This study explores the potential benefit of including multimedia content in digital materials for patient education when individuals study brief, factual materials using an iPad for a short period of time. Results demonstrate no impact on declarative knowledge, but multimedia materials increased learning confidence and improved the quality of explanations prepared for peers. Results suggest that digital multimedia materials can be an effective and efficient approach to increase patients’ abilities and confidence in communicating about their condition.

Authors

• Kirsten R. Butcher, University of Utah

• Matthew Orr, University of Utah

• Sunil Verma, University of California - Irvine