The (in)effectiveness of animation in instruction

ABSTRACT

Animated graphics have been increasingly adopted to teach complex systems, encouraged by the preconception that realism is effective. Nevertheless, the evidence has been discouraging as to their effectiveness. By the Conceptual Congruence Hypothesis, graphics should be effective in conveying concepts that are literally or metaphorically spatial. By extension, animated graphics should be effective in conveying change in time. This hypothesis was investigated by comparing three interfaces that presented text, text plus static graphics, or text plus animated graphics. Evidence was obtained for the static version of the Conceptual Congruence Hypothesis. Graphics were more effective than text in some cases, especially for participants with low spatial ability, but animation did not further increase effectiveness.

REFERENCES

• 1: David Kieras, Diagrammatic displays for engineered systems: effects on human performance in interacting with malfunctioning systems, International Journal of Man-Machine Studies, v.36 n.6, p.861-895, June 1992 [doi>10.1016/0020-7373(92)90077-X]
• 2: Mayer, R. E. (1989). Models for understanding. Review of Educational Research, 59, 43-64.
• 3: Morrison, J. B., Tversky, B., & Betrancourt, M. (2000). Animation: Does it facilitate learning? Proceedings of Workshop on Smart Graphics. Menlo Park: AAAI Press.
• 4: Barbara Tversky, Cognitive origins of graphic productions, Understanding images: finding meaning in digital imagery, Springer-Verlag New York, Inc., Secaucus, NJ, 1995

INDEX TERMS

Primary Classification:
  K. Computing Milieux
  K.3 COMPUTERS AND EDUCATION
      K.3.1 Computer Uses in Education
          Subjects: Computer-assisted instruction (CAI)

Additional Classification:
  H. Information Systems
  H.5 INFORMATION INTERFACES AND PRESENTATION (I.7)
      H.5.2 User Interfaces (D.2.2, H.1.2, I.3.6)
          Subjects: Graphical user interfaces (GUI); Interaction styles (e.g., commands, menus, forms, direct manipulation)

General Terms:
Algorithms, Design, Human Factors

Keywords:
animation, graphics, instruction, interfaces, multimedia