February 1997 — Features

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Design Standards for Visual Elements and Interactivity for Courseware

  • Use long, medium and close-up shots to establish a visual introduction. Use the close-up to get the learner's attention and hint that the video being presented is important. A longer shot is used to fix frames of reference. ICW developers should not use static shots.
  • A zoom-in is useful to focus the learner's attention on a specific object or area while at the same time maintaining visual bearings.
  • When introducing something new, focus on the object or area long enough to allow it to "register" with the learner.
  • Make sure there is no distracting movement in the video and that the object or area of focus is well lighted. The learner's eye will naturally be attracted to and focus on the lighted area and the movements in the video.
  • Some video formats to consider include: a "walkthrough" a facility or event with an off-screen narrator, a "talking head" for lectures, "show and tell" for demonstrations, interview, "talk show," panel discussion or simulation.
  • If presenting a simulation where learners perform steps or activities as closely as possible to the actual situation (i.e., manipulating the flight controls in an airplane cockpit), make it a "first-person" simulation. The first-person method helps personalize the content and aids transfer from training to performing on the job.
  • Use of audio and video together will help to reinforce the learning because the learner uses the two senses of hearing and seeing. The two pieces (audio and video) must be related. Ensure that the visual is relevant to content and that each video ties in directly to the accompanying audio. Irrelevant or inappropriate visuals or audio elements will confuse the learner.
  • Show future events or the consequences of inappropriate performance (i.e., a disaster caused by human error such as the consequences of improperly packing a parachute) prior to instruction. This will make an impression on learners about the dangerous outcomes associated with unacceptable performance and encourage them to adopt acceptable behaviors or practices.
  • Finally, use video rather than still photos if the content requires movement to clearly portray the point to be made.

Graphics & Animation Considerations

Graphics and animations are also part of an ICW developers toolkit. Considerations involving graphics and animation include: