Visuospatial tests and multimedia learning: The importance of employing relevant instruments

Juan Cristobal Castro-Alonso*, Paul Ayres, Mona Wong, Fred Paas

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingChapter

Abstract

The visuospatial processor of working memory is used for manipulations of visual and spatial information, such as mental rotation and mental folding, and consequently plays an essential role in learning from static and dynamic visualisations in multimedia materials. Learners showing low scores in tests of visuospatial abilities (e.g., mental rotation tests) tend to show low scores in tests of multimedia content, especially if these multimedia include a high total cognitive load. However, since there are several visuospatial processing abilities, the specific relationship between a certain ability and learning a certain multimedia task is not always clear. In this review chapter we provide examples of studies where the visuospatial ability investigated was not directly related to the multimedia learning task, as well as studies in which there was a more direct relationship. We argue that future research should explore more direct links between different visuospatial abilities and particular multimedia learning tasks.
Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationAdvances in cognitive load theory: Rethinking teaching
EditorsSharon Tindall-Ford, Shirley Agostinho, John Sweller
Place of PublicationLondon, UK
PublisherRoutledge
Chapter8
Pages89-99
ISBN (Print)9780429283895
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2020
Externally publishedYes

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