Interactive multimedia offers a degree of richness that lies outside the scope of
conventional design methods for computer based learning. This research seeks to
develop an interdisciplinary approach to design, that recognises the ways in which the
combination and integration of different media forms can be exploited to stimulate
experiential, intuitive, perceptual, and social/communicative aspects of learning.
The goal of the project has been to develop a conceptual design model for the
development of multimedia learning environments (MLEs), for humanistic learning
applications, by using interactive drama. The models and methods developed though a
practical design project have been founded upon theory from the realms of
psychology, social sciences, learning and education, the arts and media, and software
design. They address the cognitive and social aspects of learning, the use and
interpretation of interactive media, the creation of learning environments, and the
activities involved in design.
As a vehicle to test the theoretical perspective, a design project has been undertaken,
that has involved:
0 learning needs analysis and subject matter development;
9 development of a structural model for the MLE;
9 information structure, navigation and interface design;
scripting, design and development of media materials for the
development of interactive drama;
formative evaluation.
The subject area chosen for the design project is that of pregnancy and childbirth. The
primary reasons for this choice was a desire to address the issues of design for
informal learning experiences (that do not fit in the remit of institutional curricula) and
an interest in finding ways to represent the social and interpersonal dimension to
learning. Such learning processes have been described as `humanistic learning' for the
purposes of this research project.
To help fulfil these goals, it was decided to work with playwright Simon Turley to
develop a number of interactive drama scenes. Not only did this enable some of the
more sensitive and personal issues of pregnancy to be addressed, but it also gave an
opportunity to explore the world of drama, film and theatre as a means to create
interactive learning experiences.
The research has shown the benefits of interdisciplinary design practice, produced a
framework of the theoretical issues that inform designers, and developed an approach
to the design of MLEs for humanistic learning applications. These elements have been
brought together to form the conceptual design model.
Date of Award | 2000 |
---|
Original language | English |
---|
Awarding Institution | |
---|
Supervisor | Peter Jagodzinski (Other Supervisor) |
---|
Design models for multimedia learning environments based on interactive drama
Rogers, T. J. (Author). 2000
Student thesis: PhD