Multimedia

Multimedia is the use of a computer or similar technology device to combine text, audio, video, images, links, and resources in the presentation of content to a user. Multimedia can also be used to enhance user engagement with the content. For example, an educational website about how a cell functions can be enhanced with the use of multimedia. Instead of just text about the cell, a photo or animation assists visual learners. Additionally, adding interactivity through a touch screen benefits kinesthetic learners by enabling them to manipulate the moving parts of a cell. Multimedia is enhances learning because it can be used to differentiate instruction for a variety of learners with multiple intelligences. The integration of text, audio, videos, photos as well as provide avenues for engagement and discussion make it a great asset to the educational environment. 

The following are six principles of multimedia and how I would apply these principles when designing a multimedia project.

1. Coherence Principle is the idea that people learn better when unrelated words, pictures and sounds are excluded from a multimedia project. In other words, people learn better when the use of media is directly related to the content. For example, a multimedia presentation about training a Jack Russell Terrier (my newest family member by the way) would do well to not use images of a Bulldog. 
2. Multimedia Principle is the notion that people learn better from words and graphics than from words alone. In other words, a photo is worth a thousands words. Following our example of developing a multimedia presentation on how to train a Jack Russel, the application is clear; the audience will learn more if the presentation includes text and photos or videos of training scenarios rather than just text alone. I would include an instructional video demonstration to go along with the presentation.
3. Personalization Principle is the idea that using words in a conversational style rather than formal style make it easier for the audience to learn what is being taught.  The multimedia presentation should use words or voice narration that is relatable, understandable and conversational with the audience. 
4. Voice Principle is the idea that people learn better from a human voice rather than a robotic sounding voice. In a multimedia project, it would be a good idea to use a human to voice to narrate the presentation rather than a robotic sound voice. 
5. Image Principle is the idea that people don't learn any better if their is an image or video of the speakers face during a voice over. In a multimedia presentation this would simply entail using audio narration rather than implementing a video or photo of the the narrators face. Additionally, this has the side benefit of cutting down on costs as well and simplifying the process for the designer. 
6. Spatial Contiguity Principle is the notion that words and pictures that are close in proximity on a page help people learn better than if they were far from each other. A multimedia project that uses appropriate text and image spacing will improve the learners experience. For example, in a multimedia presentation about training a Jack Russell Terrior should have the photos in close proximity to the text on the screen. 

The following are 3 forms of Web 2.0 multimedia and how each one engages a learner with a particular intelligence.

1.  SoundCloud is a web 2.0 platform that enables listeners of music and creators of music to post songs and comment about their favorite music online. This platform engages people with Musical Rhythmic Intelligence. They can listen to podcasts or create them. They can listen to music or create and share music. It includes the ability to share music and connect directly with artists, as well as discover new tracks, demos, podcasts and more. 
2. Facebook is a web 2.0 platform that enables users to connect personally through instant messages, live videos, asynchronous posts, and much more. This platform directly engages people with Interpersonal/ Social Intelligence - One of the most powerful features that leverages social intelligence is just how simple it is to connect and share information online with friends, family, and the community. 
3. Prodigygame.com describes itself as "The most engaging math platform in the world." There are over 20 million students, teachers, and parents that use the free, curriculum-aligned math game for Grades 1 - 8. This web 2.0 platform engages people with the Logical/Math Intelligence and leverages gamification to make learning math fun for everyone.  Students compete with themselves to master and level up and compete with one another to be excellent math students. 

The next section explains the connections between MI theory, web design, and multimedia. 

Leveraging multimedia in web design enhances the experience for multiple intelligence and is therefore directly related to MI thoery. The direct correlation is that because people exhibit multiple intelligences, it is imperative that good web design accommodate as much diversity of intelligence in the population as possible and can do so through wise use of multimedia. For example, a web designer that incorporates the coherence principle in their design will use words that directly relate to content and are easy to understand. The text, audio, and video incorporated on the website would speak to audio and visual learners and integrating the coherence principal will make it a better experience because it will be relatable and understandable.