The Multiple Representations Principle in Multimedia Learning

Abstract

This chapter argues that to understand the ways that multiple representations should be designed to support learning, we need to consider the pedagogical functions that they play alongside their structural form. Multiple representations play a complementary role when learners exploit differences in computational properties or information by switching between and selecting the appropriate representation for the task at hand. Constraining benefits can be achieved when learners understanding of a second representation is supported by relating it to a familiar representations. Learners can construct deeper understanding when they abstract over multiple representations to achieve insight about the nature of the representations and the domain. The chapters reviews studies that have used multiple representations for these purposes and identifies some of the circumstances that influence the effectiveness of using multiple representations in these ways.