PARALLEL INSTRUCTIONAL MEDIA DESIGN AND EFFECTS OF PARALLELITY ON LEARNING PROCESS

Dr. Nurettin Simsek
Ankara University

Abstract

Parallel Instruction Theory (PI), presented by Netherlander academician Rik Min and his team, is based on the assumption that the capacity of the students’ limited working memory could be used effectively via parallel multimedia environments. PI approach suggested that if learning media are designed appropriately, students’ transfer and problem solving skills could be improved, learning time could be decreased, cognitive overload could be prevented and disorientation problem could be decreased. The theoretical foundation of this approach includes Pavio’s Dual Coding Theory and some of other approaches that are related to cognition, memory, attention and multimedia. For the sake of conceptual sensitivity, PI, in this study, is described as an “approach” rather than a “theory”, and it is shortly called “KÖ” instead of the term “Koşut Öğretim” in further pages. In this study, PI is introduced first, and then related literature results are mentioned and possible advantages of parallel instructional media to learning process are discussed. Min’s views are accepted to be interesting and important. Approaches by Min, which are not mentioned but could support asserted views, are also discussed. It is emphasized that PI approach is suitable to be improved by taking into account these other approaches. Finally, sensorial optimization function of parallel media is underlined.

Keywords

Cognitive loading, disorientation, learning media, interface, parallel instruction.