Using a theoretical multimedia taxonomy framework

Multimedia (MM) is a polysemous term, a term with many definitions, and in this case, many roots. In this paper, multimedia is defined as the seamless integration of two or more media. Each ancestor brings another requirement, muddying the field and making it difficult to work through. A multimedia taxonomy based on a previous media taxonomy is proposed to help organize the discipline. The taxonomy helps to classify the space called multimedia and to draw attention to difficult issues. The paper outlines the forms contributing to multimedia—text, sound, graphics, and motion—and aligns them with probable formats—elaboration, representation, and abstraction— and sets them within a context—audience, discipline, interactivity, quality, usefulness, and aesthetics. The contexts are more clearly defined in two areas: interactivity and the information basis for a discipline. Examples are presented describing the use of the taxonomy in the design and evaluation of student projects in a computer science-based multimedia course.