Suggests that some design features and evaluation criteria for multimedia computer assisted language learning (CALL) might be developed on the basis of hypotheses about ideal conditions for second language acquisition (SLA). Outlines a relevant theory of SLA and enumerates the hypotheses it implies for ideal conditions such as input saliency,…

Discussion of multimedia interactions in distance education synthesizes approaches based on distance education theory, cognition research, and multimedia development. Proposes a composite framework for discussion of multimedia and multimodal interactions in a distance education context, which is based on interactions between the instructor,…

Offers suggestions for using multimedia and technology to make successful presentations. Describes the contents of the multimedia administrator's toolbox, and the responsibilities of the multimedia administrator. Five figures are included. (six references) (LMI)

Reviews perspectives on closed (nonnetworked) multimedia systems, identifies characteristics of meaningful interactions, and outlines some basic considerations for designers of interactive multimedia instruction. Highlights include active learning environments; learner control; feedback; learner response options; adaptability; and engagement and…

Examines advantages and disadvantages of multimedia simulation in nursing education. Provides an example of a modular design with an integrated intelligent agent and knowledge base for teaching clinical decision making. Concludes that this approach overcomes some of the problems of intelligent tutoring systems. Contains 40 references. (SK)

Discusses the making of a video documenting the research and teaching of the Department of Communication at North Carolina State University, noting its rationale and the visual communication strategies used in it. Discusses visual metaphors that served as rhetorical devices within the video. Describes the video's uses to build external relations…

The Internet's multimedia environment requires students to work as designers and artists. In this multimedia world, art is a basic literacy, and students need education in art literacy. This paper recommends that schools: rename and demystify art; hire more art teachers; increase fourth-literacy requirements in teacher education; and schedule one…

A school-to-work curriculum (What's Up in Factories?) developed by a New York PBS station is giving some Ohio students a view of factory careers in the 1990s. Students are surprised at the level of job skills needed and are discovering the importance of teamwork, willingness to take responsibility, punctuality, effective communication, and…

Computer workstations can enhance instruction in information-intensive courses if they have the necessary hardware and software to enable users to gather, analyze, integrate, and display information. A reliable workstation has a multimedia computer, large-screen projection system, laserdisc and VCR player, scanner, printer, copier, computer modem,…

Examines the development and assessment communication skills at GNVQ (General National Vocational Qualifications). Reflects on a project using multimedia technology to deliver communication skills to English-as-a-Second-Language students. Argues that communication skills models in GNVQ can be narrow and limiting. Suggests that stimulating…

Examines which of the image modalities--dynamic video or still picture--is more effective in aiding vocabulary acquisition. Thirty English-as-a-Second-Language students were introduced to a hypermedia-learning program, designed for reading comprehension. Concludes that a video clip is more effective in teaching unknown vocabulary words than a…

Describes virtual tours as Web-based teaching tools that present multisensory, multimedia instruction appropriate for individual student exploration as well as group learning experiences. Highlights include teacher-developed materials, including front doors; and the use of an instructional systems design model to prepare technology-based…

Claims the "dot com" trend has pushed new media education to go more technical. Suggests that new media education (including the Internet, e-commerce, multimedia production, and other computer-related communication) refocus on the communicative dimension and new media management. Argues that only based on this understanding can…

Presents research on and discusses the redundancy effect, consistent with a dual-channel theory of multimedia learning in which adding on-screen text can overload the visual information-processing channel, causing learners to split their visual attention between two sources. In research, lower transfer performance also occurred when interesting…

In three experiments, students received a short science lesson on how airplanes achieve lift and then were asked to write an explanation (retention test) and solutions to five problems (transfer test). For some students, the lesson contained signals such as section headings and pointer words. Students given signals generated significantly more…