Effects of Computer Animation Exercises on Student Cognitive Processes.

A study examining the effects of computer animation exercises on cognitive development asked two groups of seventh graders to create computer animations, working from a simple mythic text. The ability of students to create narrative scenarios from this mythic text was analyzed. These scenarios were then recreated in the school computer lab, using Autodesk Multimedia Explorer software. Computer lab sessions were videotaped, and student dialogues tape-recorded in an effort to observe student problem solving techniques. Recurring strategies were observed over the course of the study. Students chose reductionist, literal, or transformational paths in completing their assignments. The importance of transactional dialogue between partners in developing story-lines and solving problems was recorded. Most students exhibited an ability to use the animation program for problem solving. However, in a few students, a relationship between perception and sequencing problems in the cognitive development process was observed. Students exhibiting this combination of developmental problems had difficulty with the manipulation of the computer program. This was contrasted with students who were able to use the program for sophisticated symbol manipulation. The role of computer animation in the language arts curriculum as a tool for the development of student narrative skills was also substantiated. (Contains 27 references.) (Author/TB)