Monday, January 27, 2020

Mayers Cognitive Theory of Multimedia Learning

Mayers Cognitive Theory of Multimedia Learning Mayer describes multimedia as modern presentation modes (text, pictures etc.) and different modalities (visual, auditory etc.) that are presented by an integrated technical system such as computer and internet. According to Mayer, multimedia learning refers to learning from words and pictures and multimedia instruction refers to the presentations of words and pictures. We see that Mayer describes the differences between multimedia learning and multimedia instruction. According to his description, multimedia instruction is the learning material which presents words and pictures that are intended to promote learning whereas multimedia learning refers to the learner constructed knowledge that builds mental representations from these words and pictures; that is, multimedia instruction. Mayer (2009) states three views of multimedia messages. Multimedia messages can be based on the delivery media such as amplified speaker and computer screen presentation modes such as words and pictures, or sensory modalities such as auditory and visual. In the first view, it is clearly seen that delivery media is technology centered and focus is on technology rather than learners; that is, the focus is on the devices used to present information rather than on how people learn. The other views are learner centered. These views are consistent with learner centered approach and based on cognitive theory of learning on how people learn. Moreover, these two views are consistent with constructivist learning which is based on actively constructed knowledge rather than passively transmitted and gathered. The only distinction between these views is the sensory modalities view of multimedia is consistent with a cognitive theory of learning that assumes humans have separate information processing channels for auditory and visual processing whereas presentation modes view is consistent with a cognitive theory of learning that assumes humans have separate information processing channels for verbal and pictorial knowledge. In the following figure, Mayer (2009) describes his cognitive theory of multimedia learning. Figure: Cognitive Theory of Multimedia Learning This cognitive theory of multimedia learning is based on three assumptions (2009): dual channels: there are separate channels for processing visual and auditory experiences and information in humans memory limited capacity: each information channel is limited in its ability to process the amount of information and experiences at one time active processing: processing experience and information in channels is an active process designed to construct coherent mental representations According to this model, the learner must engage in the five cognitive processes or steps in order for meaningful learning to occur in multimedia environment. First, learner selects the relevant words for processing in verbal working memory. Then, learner selects relevant images for processing in visual working memory. After that, learner organizes selected words into a verbal mental model and selected images into a visual mental model. Finally, learner integrates work based and image based representations as well as prior knowledge (Mayer, 2009). Mayers cognitive theory of multimedia learning draws on Paivios (1986) dual coding theory, Swellers (1988) cognitive load theory, Baddeleys (1992) model of working memory, Mayers (1996) SOI model of meaningful learning and Bruners constructivist theory. The working memory model explains what happens to information after it is perceived by the sense organs and suggests that there are separate slave systems such as phonological loop and visuo-spatial sketch pad for processing visual and verbal information (Baddeley, 1992). Dual coding theory is built on the working memory model and suggests that humans have two separate systems for representing verbal and nonverbal information. This verbal and nonverbal information is processed differently and in separate channels and although these systems are structurally and functionally independent, they are also interconnected (Paivio, 1986). Cognitive load theory points the findings from studies about dual coding theory; for example, information processing system is consist of two independent channels for processing and representing information which are limited in their capacity and suggests that learning happens best under conditions that are aligned with human cognitive architecture. Cognitiv e load theory is concerned with the way cognitive resources are focused and used during learning and problem solving (Sweller, 1988). Although Mayers cognitive theory of multimedia learning draws on many theories, Mayers multimedia theory is specifically based on Paivios dual coding theory which basically assumes that humans have separate information processing channels for verbal and pictorial information for auditory and visual messages. According to Mayers theory, the learner has a visual and verbal information processing system. For example, auditory narration goes into the verbal information processing system whereas animation goes into the visual information processing system. Since dual coding theory is built on the working memory model of Baddeley and working memory includes verbal and visual channels which are phonological loop and visuo-spatial sketch pad for processing visual and verbal information, we can also say that Mayers theory is consistent with Baddeleys one. Mayer also uses Swellers cognitive load theory to understand how humans learn and humans cognitive limitations for processing information. By using cognitive load theory, Mayer suggest that presenting too many elements such as words and pictures in multimedia material can lead to overload to be processed in visual or verbal information processing systems. Mayer also supports the theory of constructivist learning. By considering constructivist learning theory, Mayer suggests that cognitive construction and active learning depends on the cognitive processing of the learner during learning process. For example, learner constructs new knowledge by using active learning methods such as actively and mentally engaged in learning processes although passively sitting in the chair and watching a presentation. Mayers also use his SOI model of meaningful learning while building cognitive theory of multimedia learning. In this model, learners are again knowledge constructors who pay attention to relevant words and pictures in multimedia message in order to produce meaningful learning and organize the information in coherent verbal and pictorial model, and integrate it with prior knowledge. By his theory, first, Mayer has contributed to establishing a cognitive theory of multimedia learning which builds on how people learn. Mayers theory also continues to contribute greatly to establishing theories and principles about learning in multimedia environment. Also, his theory and principles are a great resource for instructional designers to consider the cognitive processes related with learning. Instructional designers need to consider the learners and their memory capacities. They need to design their learning materials to maximize the focus on learning activities and minimize the learners attention to activities which are not directly related to learning. When considering new delivery media technologies such as mobile phones, tablet pcs and smart phones, I think future researches need to be conducted to evaluate the multimedia by using this theory in a real world context or new derivatives of theories need to be developed from Mayers one to adapt it to recent real life co nditions.

Sunday, January 19, 2020

Longer Weekend

A plentiful amount schools in the U. S. Are beginning to consider bringing forth school four days a week rather than the usual five days. However, classes will be in session more hours per day. By doing this the schools will conserve money, have more instruction time per class, and longer weekends. First of all, the schools will preserve loads of money, as well as those who drive to school. They will have one less day of transportation because people aren't in school for that one extra day.The schools will also have much lower electric bills because the lights are off for another day. Also, if the school is under construction, there will be more time to complete it because there aren't kids in the hardhat area. Not only that, but the Janitors will have more time to tidy up the school while the kids aren't in there to create a safer and cleaner learning environment. Secondly, having longer days meaner more time per class period. Lots of kids aren't passing because they need more instr uction time.Giving more time per class period gives the teachers time to explain tough material to students who are behind. The students will better understand the material being taught. Some lessons can last for more than a day, like reading a novel. The students will better understand what they are reading if they do it all in one day than if they have to pick up where they left off the day before. Longer school days and less days in school will lead to a better education for students, there may even be less homework because the students use the extra time given In class to complete It.Plus, the school day also will last until almost dinner time, so the students will go home eight after school. They won't be out on the streets getting In trouble In the time period between school ending and dinner. Yet another reason to say yes to longer school days four days a week Is the longer weekends. While schoolwork Is obviously Incredibly important, so Is time off. Most kids need time to re lax, they are busier in today's world than ever. They have homework, practices, and projects to work on.Some even have Jobs, by the time the weekend Is over, the students haven't had any time for themselves. Schools should be open four days a week and have longer days because the schools will save money, by having more time per class a more quality education will be provided for the students, and the longer weekends will give the kids time to relax after long week. Agreeing with this Idea Is beneficial to your child's education. Adding school hours and reducing the amount of hours per school makes more time for academic pursuits.Longer Weekend more time to tidy up the school while the kids aren't in there to create a safer and emperor because the students use the extra time given in class to complete it. Plus, right after school. They won't be out on the streets getting in trouble in the time school days four days a week is the longer weekends. While schoolwork is obviously incredib ly important, so is time off. Most kids need time to relax, they are busier in Some even have Jobs, by the time the weekend is over, the students haven't had any kids time to relax after long week. Agreeing with this idea is beneficial to your child's

Saturday, January 11, 2020

Cognitive orientation to learning Essay

While the behavioural orientation dwelt on the environment, the cognitive one looked at the learner’s mental process; it is concerned with cognition, which is the process of knowing. It recognises the importance of the environment while at the same time exploring changes in the inner cognitive organization. James Hartley (1998) identified some important principles of learning related to cognitive psychology. The principles identified are as follows: proper organisation of instruction, clear structure of instruction, use of perceptual features of the task, importance of prior knowledge of the subject, the view that differences between individuals affect learning, and use of cognitive feedback to inform the learners about their failure or success. Humanistic orientation to learning This orientation was developed in the 1970s and 80s, and concerns itself mainly with the human potential for growth. Learning is seen as a form of self actualisation, contributing to psychological health (Caffalerra, 1991). Although self-actualization is perceived as the principal goal, other goals related to other stages are also present, including accomplishment of impulses (Maslow, 1970). The best insight into the humanistic orientation to learning was done by Carl Rodgers (2003), who stressed on education with the whole person and with their experiences, intellect and feelings. Some of the important elements involved in experimental or significant learning are as follows. It involves personal involvement, it is self-initiated, pervasive, evaluated by the learner and its essence is meaning. Social orientation to learning According to this orientation, people learn by observation of others in a social setting (Merriam and Caffarella, 1991). However, observation does not allow the learners to see the outcome of the other people’s behaviour in order to have some idea of what might happen when one acts in a certain way. This orientation concentrates on attending to behaviour and rehearsing on how it might work in various situations. In this model, behaviour is as a result of the interaction of the learner with the environment. Instead of looking at learning as acquiring some forms of knowledge, this model also incorporates social relationships, which are situations of joint participation. According to Tenant (1977), this model has the advantage of paying attention to the need of understanding knowledge and learning in context. The model is limited by the fact that learning that is unrelated to the life situation or context. Moreover, situations can arise where the community of practice has power relationships exhibiting participation and entry (Wenger, 1999). Part Two Learning and development supports and enhances organisational development Any form of learning, training and development is aimed at improving the learners as well as their performance, leading to organisational development. Organisational development is not just concerned with sending people to course to get trained. On the contrary, it is about encouraging people to examine and challenge any assumptions acting as a filter for learning. Learning is usually motivated by the need to arrive at solutions to problems, whether one wants to move away from a particular state; such as conflict, lack of team collaboration and lack of skill, or wants to achieve greater satisfaction personally or within an organisational setting. Learning has been described by organisations as the only competitive advantage that any organisation may have, since it responds to the ever unpredictable and dynamic business environment. Learning in organisations enables the organisations to make proper use of the immense mental capacity of its members, creating the type of process needed to improve it (Dixon, 1994). An organization that encourages its members to learn eventually ends up improving and transforming itself for the better. Moreover, organisations where their members continuously expand their capacity in creating the outcomes they really desire, where fresh and wider thinking patterns are nurtured; where joint aspirations are set free and people learn together develop greatly. For an organization to have sustainable development, it must be adaptive to its external environment, continually enhance its capacity to adapt, develop individual and joint learning, and use learning to attain even better results. The learning organisation There is a growing interest in organizations to develop a learning culture within themselves in order to improve their existing products and services and for innovation purposes. This has led to a number of initiatives such as Total Quality Management, TQM and Business Process Reengineering, BPR. Companies have come to the realisation that their success or failure greatly depends on human factors such as organisational culture, attitudes and skills. It also appears that the implementation of organizational programs is geared to highly specified procedures that are defined for foreseen situations. These organisations have further recognised that any initiatives do not usually work by themselves and something extra is required. This is in order to cope with quick and unanticipated changes where existing programmed responses are not adequate in order to provide the necessary flexibility to deal with dynamically changing conditions, and allow top management to respond with initiatives based on customer needs as opposed to being limited by business processes established for different situations. Organisations have increasingly had to among other things develop capacities for the fast-paced innovation to develop capacity and learn to appreciate change. As the competitive atmosphere becomes increasingly variegate and complex, these organisations have seen the need for greater genetic variety; a wider variety of managerial thinking, and a more enhanced repertoire of management actions. Top and successful organisations have reached such heights by organising around people and honouring the need to recognition, lifelong learning, challenge, something to believe in and a feeling of control. With the pace of change ever getting faster, organisations have seen the need for developing mechanisms to help in innovation and continuous learning better than ever before (Dixon, 1994). Learning in an organisation is about development of higher levels of skills and knowledge as opposed to more training, and is classified into four levels. The first level involves learning of facts, procedures, processes and knowledge and mostly applies to known situations that have very minor changes. The second level entails learning new job skills that can be transferred to other situations (Easterby-Smith et al, 1999). This is often applicable to situations whose existing responses need changing. Outside experts can be very useful at this stage since they bring in fresh expertise and skills that may have been lacking initially (Dixon, 1994). The third level is all about learning to adapt, and is often applicable to more dynamic circumstances where solutions need development. Here, the mode of learning is experimenting and deriving lessons from past failures and successes (Easterby-Smith et al, 1999). Finally, the fourth level is learning to learn, which involves creativity and innovation; design of the future as opposed to just adapting to it. Here, knowledge is reframed and all assumptions challenged. Additionally, the model is applicable at various levels that include learning of individuals, organisations and teams. Organisations achieving learning level four will not only reinvent their organization but also their entire industry (Easterby-Smith et al, 1999). Conclusion Learning greatly helps in improving both individual and organizational innovativeness and efficiency. There are numerous learning models applicable to various situations, all of which have their unique advantages and disadvantages. The adoption of a particular learning model entirely depends on the prevailing conditions. Organisations are striving to continually improve their performance as well as the quality of their products and services. From the analysis above, it is evident that indeed learning and development supports and enhances organisational development. References Bruner, J (1977) The Process of Education, Harvard University Press, CambridgeDixon, N (1994) The Organizational Learning Cycle, McGraw-Hill Easterby-Smith, M et al (1999) Organizational Learning and the Learning Organization-Developments in Theory and Practice, Sage Hartley, J (1998) Learning and Studying-A research perspective, Routledge, London Maslow, A (1970) Motivation and Personality 2nd edition, Harper and Row, New York Merriam, S and Caffarella (1998) Learning in Adulthood, A comprehensive guide, Jossey-Bass, San Francisco Rogers, C and Freiberg, H (2003) Freedom to Learn, Merrill, New York

Friday, January 3, 2020

Anxieties And Other Effects Of War - 2060 Words

Anxieties and Other Effects of War Naturally, a person who is facing anxiety might pull away from conditions that have triggered similar feelings in the past. Anxieties are of different types including existential anxiety which results from facing an existential crisis, angst, and nihilistic feelings. Other categories of anxiety are test anxiety, stage fright, stage fright, and somatic anxiety. Stranger anxiety and social anxiety occur when a person is around strangers (Karam 193). Anxieties and its effects evident in Cormac McCarthy s, The Road are both short term and long term and include food shortage, repercussions of war, and extreme fear. Unlike trivial anxieties in the day to day world, those of a post-apocalyptic situation are long lasting and some never end and require only love and family to heal. Love The unnamed father in The Road takes care of his son with a lot of love. The young boy and his father love and care for each other all the time to control their anxiety. The boy hangs on to him all the time in fear of the unknown. The small boy seeks refuge and love from his father. When the father attempts to leave the boy to go and look for firewood, the boy cries and claim that he is afraid to be left alone. This depicts the fear he feels, especially if he is left alone. The young boy keeps clutching on his fathers coat for safety (McCarthy 34). The father carries the boy across the field, stopping to catch a breath every fifty steps. They wrap themselves inShow MoreRelatedPsychological Effects Of War On Children1235 Words   |  5 Pages Psychological Influence of War on Children Milan Patel Hammond High School Student AP Psychology Ms. Pfanstiehl May 23, 2016 ABSTRACT The purpose of this paper is to tell the reader how children are most influenced psychologically by war and that the psychological effects are more severe than those of physical, emotional, and social influences. Researches that were found in this projects includes: book, journal, websites, professional member of the APA, et al. Through further readingRead MoreThe Cold War On American Culture Essay1489 Words   |  6 PagesThe Cold War was a pivotal time in American history. To a greater degree than most other wars, the Cold War affected American society in unfathomable and profound ways. More specifically, American culture transformed immensely during this time. From a constant state of anxiety, to changes in media and the arts, to McCarthyism; the Cold War fervently affected the quality of life, personal expression, and American politics. Predominantly, the Cold War inflicted fear and apprehension within the AmericanRead MoreThe Causes of the First World War1166 Words   |  5 P agesThis question has formed part of the historiography of the causes of the First World War, a historical debate that has endured ever since the conflict ended. It periodically resurfaces with new theories being advanced such as the Fischer thesis, usually on account of the release of previously unseen documents or because of a shift in the political climate. It has emerged to the fore once again because this year is the centennial of the war’s outbreak and there are plans to commemorate it nationallyRead MoreThe Consequences of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder1621 Words   |  6 Pagesthe symptoms can come back when an event or the anniversary of the trauma triggers the memory of the traumatic event. Some of the traumas that cause post-traumatic stress disorder are rape, death of a family member, veterans that have fought in a war, a car accident, or even a child being attacked going home. People living within the same household of a PTSD victim, that goes without treatmen t, are at risk of becoming under such stress that they too are possible victims of PTSD. PTSD can happenRead MoreThe Deployment Of A Family Member1748 Words   |  7 Pagesour country continues to send more troops to Iraq and Afghanistan, and the effects on their families are becoming more severe. The deployment of a family member can definitely be a difficult time for loved ones. Currently, families are experiencing the affects of the deployment cycle and it is putting many people under a lot of emotional stress. More than 1.2 billion families have an active-duty parent or spouse (The Long War). Although it affects every family differently, the phases are all the sameRead MoreHow Does War Affect Children?1322 Words   |  5 PagesInnocent War How does war effect children? War affects children in all the ways, in fact they are the group who is the most victimized due to the war. For example, according to McMullen et al. said that almost about a billion of children live in countries that are at combat (1489). This means that many of our children are subject to the traumatic events due to the war. Children of war torn countries are often subject to post-traumatic stress. By better understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatmentRead MoreThe Effects Of Stress On People On The Front Line966 Words   |  4 Pages War has been a part of society since the beginnings of mankind up until modern day. One unfortunate aspect that inevitably comes with warfare is stress. Despite the long, insidious existence of war, little has been known about the effects of stress on people on the front line. Combatant soldiers endure extreme stress while on the battle field and even after returning home. Chronic stress under such environments ultimately results in disastrous changes in those who participate in war. As a soldierRead MoreAnalysis Of The Poem The Dead By James Joyce1280 Words   |  6 Pages Tormented by the devastation wrought by World War I, individuals across the world struggled to communicate their experiences, thoughts, and sorrows in their fragmented societies. Authors such as James Joyce, T.S. Elliot, and Virginia Wolfe gave voice to these individuals through their implementation of a stream of consciousness writing style that became a key feature in the modernist literary movement. In hi s short story â€Å"The Dead†, the final tale in his collection Dubliners, James Joyce representsRead MoreClassifications for Anxiety Disorders Essay579 Words   |  3 PagesAre you or do you know someone, experiencing panic attacks or anxiety attacks? If so, it is important to be familiar with what these terms mean. Individuals frequently use panic and anxiety together, however; there are significant differences in the two and understanding the difference will make it easier to comprehend the relationship. Phobias are irrational fears that create interference within an individual’s daily routine. There are individuals who suffer from a phobia linked to pretty muchRead MoreZiek Sanchez. Massie And Perry . Pd. 3. April 12, 2017.1113 Words   |  5 PagesZiek Sanchez Massie and Perry Pd. 3 April 12, 2017 Post Traumatic Stress Disorder From The Vietnam War The Vietnam war was one of the most alarming and dangerous wars to fight. Every step in the Vietnam jungle was taken cautiously. The guerrilla warfare used by the Vietcong was frightening to anticipate. The majority of the United States army was only that of young men who had been chosen through the draft. Young men going to school and living a life at home in safety all the sudden having to make