Comparing the efficacy of multimedia modules with traditional textbooks for learning introductory physics content

TL;DR

This study compares multimedia learning modules and traditional textbooks in teaching introductory physics, finding multimedia modules lead to better immediate and delayed learning outcomes.

Contribution

It provides empirical evidence that multimedia modules enhance learning effectiveness over traditional text in introductory physics courses.

Findings

Multimedia modules improved immediate test scores.

Multimedia modules led to better retention after two weeks.

Students preferred multimedia learning for engagement.

Abstract

A clinical study was performed comparing the efficacy of multimedia learning modules with traditional textbooks for the first few topics of a calculus based introductory electricity and magnetism course. Students were randomly assigned to three different groups experiencing different presentations of the material; one group received the multimedia learning module presentations and the other two received the presentations via written text. All students were then tested on their learning immediately following the presentations as well as two weeks later. The students receiving the multimedia learning modules performed significantly better than the students experiencing the text-based presentations on both tests.