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Substantive Post (Challenge A)

bashar
2 Comments

Cognitive Theory of Multimedia Learning

I have been going over the Week 2 notes, particularly the “Theories of Multimedia Learning,” and I thought the Mayer’s Cognitive Theory of Multimedia Learning (CTML) could be of value to my Challenge A: Comic. Mayer’s CTML is broken down into three cognitive principles: Cognitive Load Theory, Dual Coding Theory, and Active Processing). These three principles can be used to improve the quality of my 12-20 panel comic by reducing the cognitive load on the audience, and improving their knowledge retention. 

Types of Cognitive Loads

There are three distinct types of cognitive loads that learners (the audience) can experience. Knowing their differences and how to create a piece of media that leverages good design principles will enhance the learning experience for learners, and increase the likelihood and quantity/quality of knowledge learned from a piece of media (i.e. the Comic). The three cognitive loads highlighted in our Week 2 readings were: Extraneous Cognitive Load, Intrinsic Cognitive Load, and Germane Cognitive Load.

Extraneous Cognitive Load

Characterised by poor design that distracts or confuses the learner – Extraneous Cognitive Load should be avoided when creating media. Extraneous Cognitive Load takes the form of redundancies and poorly communicated information (no headings, titles, etc.).

Intrinsic Cognitive Load

The tools used to reduce cognitive load for the learner. Different learners require different Intrinsic Cognitive Load tools, depending on their prior knowledge and expertise on the subject. General methods include segmenting information into smaller parts, teaching the basics upfront, and narrating the information in an easy-to-understand manner (do not mix verbal and written presentation).

Germane Cognitive Load

The outcome of using Intrinsic Cognitive Load to reduce Extraneous Cognitive Load. It results in easily digestible and remembered information for the learners.

2 Comments

  1. Hi Bashar! I thought it was cool of you to break down the 3 types of cognitive load and connect them directly to how you’ll design your comic. I was wondering how you’ll plan on using one or all of three types in your comic panel? For example, would you use font sizes, layouts, more anime-style or have both image AND text in your panels? I think using these different designs might further demonstrate how poor or strong a design can be when it comes to the reader’s understanding of the content material. Additionally, you mentioned how segmenting information can help manage the reader’s load. Do you think that can also help with the pacing and information load on each panel? I, myself, am having the same problem with how I will layout my comic and how much information I should put per panel.

    Overall, your post showed a very good summary of our readings! Looking forward to reading more of your posts for the next few challenges.

  2. Hi Bashar! Thanks for sharing this breakdown of Mayer’s CTML and the three types of cognitive load! I like how you connected it directly to the challenge—we don’t always think about theory when designing something creative like a comic. From my experience in statistics, I’ve often felt “extraneous load” when reading long problem explanations without clear visuals, so I can see how a comic format could reduce that by segmenting information step by step.
    I’m curious, when you think about creating your comic, which type of cognitive load do you think will be the hardest to manage?

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