Chapter 6: Teaching with Multimedia and Hypermedia

The chapter begins by talking about the different between multimedia and hypermedia. Multimedia is “multiple media” or “a combination of media” which can be graphics, photographs, sound, motion video, etc. While hypermedia is “linked media” or “interactive media.” The text then talks about the current and future impact of hypermedia on education. It talks about how educators recognize the tools and use them when they enhance the learning in the classroom. There are four capabilities that offer the enhancement of classroom learning. They are increased motivation, flexible learning modes. development of creative and critical thinking skills and improved writing and process skills. Increased motivation talks about how some students struggle to do homework or tests so the students use hypermedia programs. When the students use the programs they are able to do the activity right away unlike when they do homework. The text also says that many educators believe the most important characteristic of hypermedia is its ability to encourage students to be proactive learners. So when it comes to flexible learning modes it is similar to how hypermedia programs increase motivation. There are students who have a difficult time doing writing assignments or tests but can verbally or physically show you how to do the assignment or test. Which is where hypermedia is so flexible with its learning modes because it is great for students who can achieve a better grade with something visual. Development of creative and critical thinking skills is about students use higher thinking skills to accomplish activities. Brown suggested that multimedia design is a complex and generative activity for learners and supports the development of metacognitive skills, problem-solving strategies, creative freedom, and self-awareness of individual learning styles under demanding project-based conditions. Finally with improved writing and process skills help students come up with different perspectives on organizing and presenting information. I think that it is important for teachers to use multimedia and hypermedia tools as a different way of teaching.