Effect of mixed media visualization on learner perceptions and outcomes

This pilot study examines the effect of mixed media visualization on learner perceptions and outcomes in 3D spatial modeling. The context for this study is a university first year undergraduate interactive media and design course. Meta analytic studies in the use of visualizations show positive improvements in learning outcomes among low and high spatial learners. But often these studies are focused on single media and virtual representations. Many multimedia learning studies do not take into consideration important factors that could influence the appropriate selection of media. This exploratory study aims to address this from a learner's perspective through the evaluation of physical and virtual media (3D Printed, Virtual Reality and 2D Projection). This exploratory study produces several core guidelines for more in-depth research on the interaction between media for improved learning in domains which really on visualizations and manipulations. The aim is that through more meaningful learning activities centered on the media affordances learner engagement is improved leading to improved outcomes. James Birt; Dirk Hovorka