Mayer's Principles of Multimedia

Signaling

Modality

Multimedia

Contiguity

Mayer's Principles of Multimedia

Redundancy

Voice & Image

This is an overview of Mayer's 12 Principles of Multimedia Learning as they are defined in the book e-Learning and the Science of Instruction

Segmenting

Pre-training

Personalization

Coherence

Voice Principle

Image Principle

• Use a Human-Like Voice, Not Robotic or Monotone
• Increases Engagement & Comprehension

• Instructor Image Should Enhance Learning
• Keep the Instructor’s Appearance Simple

Coherence Principle

• Avoid extraneous words, pictures, sounds
• Focus on essential content
• Reduce cognitive load

Pre-Training Principle

• Introduce Key Terms and Concepts First
• Improves Understanding and Retention
• Useful for Complex or Technical Topics
• Helps Reduce Cognitive Load

Segmenting Principle

• Break Content into Smaller Chunks
• Present Information in Manageable Steps
• Control Pace of Learning
• Best for Complex Content

Redundancy Principle

• Avoid Presenting the Same Information in Multiple Forms
• Use Spoken Narration with Graphics
• Excessive Text Causes Cognitive Overload

Signaling Principle

• Use visual & auditory cues
• Guide attention
• Enhance organizational structure
• Improve learning efficiency

Contiguity Principle

• Avoid Separation of Elements
• Improves Information Processing
• Strengthens Connections

Spatial Contiguity

Temporal Contiguity

• Present narration and images together
• Enhance understanding

• Related text and images close together
• Reduce searching

Personalization Principle

• Use a Conversational Tone
• Address the Learner Directly
• Avoid Overly Complex or Impersonal Language
• Enhances Engagement and Motivation

Modality Principle

• Use Spoken Narration with Visuals
• Avoid Excessive On-Screen Text
• Reduces Cognitive Overload

Multimedia Principle

• Dual Channels for Learning
• Words + Pictures = Better Understanding
• Images Should Be Relevant
• Enhances Retention and Transfer