Friday, January 23rd 2026

Today we discussed multi-media principles and how these can help us create more effective instructional videos and tutorials. This principle states that the audio and the visual should compliment each other and not compete. For example, visuals and audio should be paired together instead of audio and text. Another example of competing is having a video of yourself on the screen while you narrate the visual/text. This is explained through dual coding theory. Dual coding theory explains that learning is more effective when information is processed through two channels: a verbal channel (spoken words or written text) and a visual channel (images, diagrams, etc.). Pairing clear narration with meaningful visuals allows learners to build connected mental representations, which reduces cognitive load and improves comprehension and long-term memory compared to using words or visuals alone.

During our class today we talked about educational videos that implement duel coding theory such as Teachertube, Khan Academy and YouTube. In my undergrad I used Ninja Nerd Science videos to help me learn physiology concepts. They draw diagrams on the white board while explaining the process with words. Here is an example of a Ninja Nerd Science video from YouTube: 

I have attached below a screencast video, which I learned how to make in class today. This aligns with the multimedia principle, having my audio explaining the FreshPrep website while others can see visually what I am doing on the screen. I also added interactive elements including a multiple choice question.

Here is my interactive video:

In my subject area (Physical and Health Education) I was thinking a screencast could be useful to give students a demo on how to find and track nutrition information online. There are a number of websites such as cronometer.com, where individuals can log their diet and exercise. As a teacher I could use a screencast video to walk them through this website, and how it can be used for an assignment or in their everyday life.