You got 5? Using Mayers Cognitive Loading Principles in your presentations

Author and presenter

• Philip Saldais, Digital Futures, Academic Division

Abstract

As higher education increasingly relies on online videos and live recordings, a critical question arises: Are our presentations truly effective? What if we could enhance content delivery without mastering new tools or technologies? Mayer and Clark's (2024) research into cognitive load theory provides a research-backed, accessible framework for improving instructional videos by applying six core multimedia principles. These principles, rooted in their extensive work, guide the structure and presentation of multimedia content to optimise learning and reduce cognitive overload.

This Lightning presentation explores the application of these principles: particularly in digital presentations involving slides and recorded content. The focus is on how educators can strategically present information to enhance student comprehension. By rethinking our presentation techniques through the lens of six principles (coherence, signalling, redundancy, spatial contiguity, temporal contiguity, and segmenting) we aim to enhance the effectiveness of content delivery. Mayer and Clark's comprehensive research offers a solid foundation for improving instructional design videos. Additionally, the PARC (proximity, alignment, repetition, and contrast) principles of graphic design (Muavia, 2023) are briefly explored to help academics design slides that further support learning.

This approach provides educators with a straightforward, impactful method to enhance teaching without complex software or extensive training. By refining the way we deliver existing content, we can significantly improve the student learning experience, particularly in digital environments.

References

Clark, R. C., & Mayer, R. E. (2024). E-Learning and the science of instruction: Proven guidelines for consumers and designers of multimedia learning (Fifth edition). Wiley.

Muavia, A. (2023, July 12). How to Use Contrast, Repetition, Alignment, and Proximity in Graphic Design. Medium. https://medium.com/@ameermuaviaa116/how-to-use-contrast-repetition-alignment-and-proximity-in-graphic-design-8cf54d948569