Improving a multimedia learning environment to enhance students' learning, transfer, attitudes and engagement

Byline: Janet Mannheimer Zydney, Cynthia Stegeman, Laura Bristol, Ted S. Hasselbring The purpose of this study was to develop and implement a multimedia learning environment in mathematics aimed to enhance students' learning, transfer, attitudes, and engagement. This multimedia learning environment included whole group instruction on mathematical concepts, a learning game, and group activities. The learning game used a variety of multimedia elements, including videos, animations, sound effects, text and interactive feedback. Fourteen elementary school students used the learning game as a review of material taught earlier in the year. The results indicated significant improvement in both achievement scores and attitude toward mathematics. The results, however, did not show the same benefits for the special education students. Qualitative analyses revealed a number of misconceptions and poor problem solving strategies that students used when transferring their knowledge to a novel situation. Enhancement of the learning environment and continuation of this research will work toward improving students' mathematical learning.