Mayer’s 12 Principles of Multimedia Learning
If you are designing a PowerPoint presentation, developing an online course or preparing to flip your classroom, you may need to reconsider how you will get learners to engage with the material without the traditional face-to-face interaction. In the book Multimedia Learning (Cambridge Press, 2001), Richard E. Mayer discusses twelve principles that shape the design and organization of multimedia presentations
We’re going to cover the basics of his 12 Principles of Multimedia Learning in this Moodle book.
The Coherence Principle - Less is More
The Coherence Principle states that humans learn best when extraneous, distracting material is not included.
How to use the Coherence Principle:
You can use the Coherence Principle as you’re planning your visual elements. Ask yourself, “Is this image 100% necessary to help with comprehension? Or could you find a better one? Does this message use simple enough language so the audience will understand? Maybe I could trim down a few words.”
The Coherence Principle is also quite helpful when you’re editing your training video or eLearning course. As you re-watch the experience, make sure to watch with a critical “Coherence Principle” eye. Determine how you can reduce, simplify, and clarify.
See HERE for examples of pages not using the Coherence Principle