Mayer's 12 principles of multimedia learning

Mayer's 12 principles of multimedia learning

Less is more

Highlight what matters

Chunk content into segments

Reduce overload

Minimise unnecessary mental effort

Don't read and show text at the same time

Introduce key terms before diving in

Keep related items close

Speak rather than write

Present narration and visuals together

Use words and pictures, not just words

Use a conversational tone

Improve understanding and build mental models

Instructor's image is not compulsory

Use a human voice

Click on each square for more information.

Segmenting Principle

The segmenting principle tends to be more effective in situations when

• Instructional content is particularly challenging,
• The information is delivered at a swift pace, and
• The learner possesses limited familiarity with the subject.

Consider:

• Breaking down the material into smaller segments.
• Use step-by-step guidance.

temporal CONTIGUITY principle

Students learn best when words and pictures are presented at the same, not sequentially.

Personalisation principle

Hi! I am a carb, and when you eat me, I give you quick energy! Tap me for a quick check!

Use a conversational tone, not formal language. When learning feels more like a conversation, we’re more likely to understand and remember it!

• Using a conversational style triggers social cues making learners feel they are engaged in a dialogue, even if the lesson is pre-recorded.
• Learners feel like the content is speaking to them, rather than at them.

signalling principle

You can help your student learn by adding cues to draw attention to what is vital.

• Emphasise the key points by adding arrows, callouts, highlights or bold text.

Pick the visual that follows this principle most closely.

Select the slide you think is best:

redundacy principle

We learn best from a combination of spoken words and graphics. Add on-screen text, and we get overwhelmed.

• Use either graphic or text to complement spoken presentation, never use both at the same time.
• Minimise the use of on-screen text in narrated presentations. Instead, focus on images or graphics.

image Principle

According to this principle, including a human face does not significantly enhance cognitive processing. However, it may improve social presence and engagement. For all asynchronous content, it is recommended to include the instructor's image only when strictly necessary to enhance rapport or social connection. Pick the visual that follows this principle most closely.

pre-training Principle

People learn best when they are introduced to the names and characteristics of key concepts before the main lesson begins. Consider:

• Preparing a cheat sheet of terms and definitions to use with the lesson.
• Make sure learners know how to use the tools needed to complete tasks (e.g., Excel).

Interested in learning more about this principle? Click on the link below!

sPATIAL CONTIGUITY principle

Present text and visuals close together on the screen to maximise learning.

• Keep text and visual close to each other on the frame.
• Place any feedback next to the relevant question or answers.
• Ensure instructions are presented on the same screen as the activity.

Pick the visual that follows this principle most closely.

modality Principle

Students experience deeper learning from visuals and spoken words rather than text and words. Aim to strike a balance! Consider:

• Try to limit the use of text.
• During a narrated presentation, only use text to list steps, provide directions, or for key words only.

Multimedia Principle

R. Mayer believes that humans have dual channels for processing information:

• A visual channel,
• A verbal channel.

When using both channels, overload is reduced and understanding is enhanced. Therefore

• Use a mix of text and images,
• Use only images or visuals that clarify meanings and makes the learning memorable.

coherence principle

Remove irrelevant information that may distract learners from the main message.

• Include graphics, text or narratives only when they are on point and support the learning goals.
• Use simple diagrams and infographics.

Pick the visual that follows this principle most closely.

voice Principle

When learners hear a real voice, with a natural tone, emotion and rhythm, it makes the content feel more personal and engaging. This sense of human presence can enhance motivation. While AI tools can now closely replicate human voice, using your own adds a layer of authenticity and warmth that synthetic voices cannot match. Most importantly, your voice helps learners feel a stronger connection to you as their Group Leader, reinforcing trust and a sense of guidance.