Comparative Effect of Interactive Multimedia to Text-Based Content for Software Application Courses

Abstract

This study evaluated the comparative effect of interactive multimedia to text-based content on learners taking a software application course.111 participants took part in the study. The researcher employed the use of web analytics and online surveys to capture data. The study showed that there was a significant difference in the learner`s preference for either type of content. An exploratory study on the learner`s preference of specific interactive multimedia features showed that learners preferred the video presentation and the VDI than the other features. The study also evaluated the comparative effect of the two content types on the learner`s comprehension. For instances where learners made use of interactive multimedia they performed significantly better than instances where learners made use of text-based content. These results suggest that use of interactive multimedia can lead to better comprehension and participation than text-based content in self-paced software application courses.