What question did this study set out to answer?

This research examines the existing evidence on how different media affect learning outcomes.

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December 1, 1983

Reconsidering Research on Learning from Media

Key Points

This research examines the existing evidence on how different media affect learning outcomes.
Reviewed recent meta-analyses of media's influence on learning
Analyzed studies addressing instructional methods and media use
Critiqued problems in media attribute theories
Found no significant learning benefits from using specific media for instruction
Identified rival hypotheses that impact the perceived effectiveness of media
Proposed new research directions to improve understanding of media in learning

Abstract

Recent meta-analyses and other studies of media's influence on learning are reviewed. Consistent evidence is found for the generalization that there are no learning benefits to be gained from employing any specific medium to deliver instruction. Research showing performance or time-saving gains from one or another medium are shown to be vulnerable to compelling rival hypotheses concerning the uncontrolled effects of instructional method and novelty. Problems with current media attribute and symbol system theories are described and suggestions made for more promising research directions.

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