Multimedia learning in computer science: the effect of different modes of instruction on student understanding

Abstract

In a series of three experimental studies, we investigate the understanding achieved by learners when studying a complex domain in computer science, that is, the subject of memory management concepts in operating systems. We use three different media combinations to explain the subject of memory management concepts ??? Animation and text, animation and voice and a combination of animation, voice and text. The students who had no prior knowledge on the subject where given a test on recall and transfer knowledge after viewing the treatments. This paper reports the results of the experiment which may provide useful guidance for instructional designers specifically in the area of computer science.