Multimedia Approach to Teaching Learning Process

By : Prof. Deepak Sharma

Multimedia - Definition

Digital integration of Text, Graphics, Animation, Audio, Still images, Motion Video.

Nature of Multimedia Approach
Multi --------à Many Media -------à Techniques or methods

• Multimedia approach uses a number of media, devices, techniques in the teaching learning process.
• Multimedia approach can convey vast information and provide many sources from which student can access the information.
• Multimedia approach will improve the teaching learning process.
• Multimedia approach is not restricted to a single type of learning style. It can provide the support of a wide range of activities.
• Multimedia approach aims at providing meaningful learning experience via a mix of media in order to achieve predetermined objectives.
• Multimedia approach provides the opportunity to gain mastery of competencies and skills.
• The choice of the media has to be done carefully so that one does not hamper or reduce the effect of the other. That is each media must complement the other.
• Multimedia approach will enable the learner to get access to information in dynamic environment.

Procedure for Adopting Multimedia Approach

• The following are the six steps to be followed while adopting the Multimedia Approach
• First Stage
• In this stage the teacher initiates the teaching – learning activities.
• Teacher deliver a well prepared lesson based on the objectives formulated.
• Teacher could use a variety of media for his presentation.

• Second Stage
• Teacher demonstrates a specific and specialized unit using a mix of media.
• The teacher may provide learner with programmed learning materials, cassettes, CD's etc.
• Third Stage
• This is a preparatory stage for the learner before he stars independent learning.
• The student discusses with peer students and teachers his plan of action.
• Forth Stage
• In this stage the learner actively participates.
• He uses variety of media and materials in his self-study.
• Fifth Stage
• In this stage the learner integrates theory and practice.
• Sixth Stage
• In this stage learner finds that teaching – learning activities have to be organized on a higher level.
• The student involved in critical analysis, critical evaluation and exchange of ideas.

Role of Teacher in Multimedia Approach

• Teacher has to adopt a number of methods and techniques.
• Teacher has to aware of the different available media and their availability.
• Teacher should be physically competent to use and demonstrate the use of the different media.
• Teacher should be skillful enough to make a judicious choice of media and competent enough to mix them sequentially and in an orderly manner.
• Teacher's role is that of a facilitator or manager of activities.
• Teacher has to lead his student for independent, individualized learning.

Prerequisites for developing a Multimedia Instructional device

• Planning
• Express the idea and purpose
• Develop the objectives
• Consider the learner
• Find related material
• Prepare the content outline
• Designing the Multimedia Device
• Identifying the factors or criteria for media selection
• Select the media
• Make a story board
• Develop the script
• Production of the multimedia Device
• Take the picture and keep a record
• Process the picture
• Edit the picture
• Edit the narration and captions
• Mix sound
• Prepare final copies
• Follow-up
• Use the materials
• Evaluate for future use
• Revise the materials
• Obtain the copyright for the materials.

Advantages of the multimedia Approach

• Multimedia approach enable the student to represent information using several different media.
• Can arouse the curiosity among the learner and provide them vivid impressions.
• Multimedia can take into account different learning styles – some pupil learn by interpreting text, while others require more graphical representations.
• Can develop a positive attitude among the learners towards the teaching-learning process.
• Multimedia Approach allows for self-pacing
• Technique of simulation can be effectively applied through the multimedia approach.
• Helps in development of higher order thinking skills.
• Multimedia approach provides the student the flexibility of 'any where', 'any time' learning.
• Helps in developing group and interpersonal skills.
• Effective remediation programmes can be implemented through the multimedia approach.
• Multimedia approach can bridge language barriers since audio is not the only means of communication.

Disadvantages of the multimedia Approach

• Requires highly sophisticated infrastructure facilities, which may lead to heavy financial burden.
• Expertise and skill are required to operate the multimedia devices, which will lead to the problem of non-availability of human resources.
• Not feasible in the all topics of study.