When considering the types of media to include in the module, it is important to ensure that the learner is not being overloaded or overwhelmed to the point of distraction from the intended level of engagement or from the learning objectives themselves, therefore it is important to keep use of different media (e.g. video, audio, hi-fidelity animation) in context, and strictly fit for purpose.
The purpose of this document is to analyse each type of computer-based media and explore their strengths and weaknesses when used within self-paced eLearning.
Text
Pros
- We read quickly
- Learners read at their own pace
- Text is flexible and searchable
- Text is easy to modify
- Text is portable
- English may be a second language
- Content may require graphic illustration
Pros
- No literacy skills required to interpret an image
- Highly applicable to medicine
- Simplifies, highlights and illustrates a principal, concept or process
- Graphics and icons provide associative markers for content
- Transfers information easily through charts and diagrams
- Copyright issues
- Awkward to update
Pros
- Effectively reinforces points in a sequence or process
- Effectively transfers information about a particular system, sequence or process which static media (e.g. text or images) cannot
- Learners cannot view at their own pace
- Lengthy sequences cannot be remembered as easily as static versions
- Requires advanced skills
- Requires longer development time
- Awkward to update
Pros
- Few learners cannot hear (more cannot read)
- Points can be emphasised or transferred differently through speech
- Good for learners with English as a second language
- Can be used widely on portable devices such as iPods or mobile phones
- Learners do not listen at their own pace
- Requires higher level of skill to produce
- Awkward to modify or update
