An interesting read on how The Media's influence Learning Methods

Learning is a dynamic processes driven by a number of factors and is not a one off process. There has been quite a debate on the influence of media on learning has been on for some time now. Overtime the primary media for learning has been books which have specific traits like stability of texts and progression of knowledge over time.In using books the difference between a poor and efficient learner is in ability to decode texts easily. Most book readers use stability of printed books to develop a mental model over time.

Modern technology in media has not been clearly linked to learning outcomes due to its instability. Besides this, modern media like televisions and videos have not been integrated to enhance learning. Therefore they produce content majorly for entertainment with little learning outcomes. In order to benefit from rapidly advancing technology in education media must be integrated with learning otherwise it will become only a platform for movie moguls to get rich.

Television content unlike books is transient and offers information through visual and oral means and can be easily forgotten. The video information is affected by many factors which include their transient nature, presentation in both oral and visual ways which affect learners’ ability to retain content easily.

On the other hand computers as learning medium offer ability to process symbols and symbol systems. They can convert numerals’ into tables and charts and through use of integrated software convert texts into speeches. Computers can also help students to link charts and graphs to real life situations hence help in the development of a mental model. They can turn novices into experts through presentation of informal and abstract ideas in a simpler understandable manner like using arrows to represent force in physics. It can allow learners manipulate symbols to determine consequences, unsuccessful or successful of their choices progressively enlightening novices and improving on their mental models.

It is crystal clear therefore that for learning to occur there must be media to present the information but if learning occurs from this exposure to media then it is because of the information embedded in the media that triggers learning. Media does not have the influence and speed of learning but rather instructional methods in the media influence learning outcomes.

The impact that each media component has on learning differs depending on how knowledge has been integrated and delivered. The content in the media platform will greatly influence learning outcomes otherwise television and video media will only provide entertainment devoid of meaningful learning process.

It is therefore a choice to make learning integral in any media program which will make advancement in technology beneficial to all mankind rather than make money for a few individuals in the movie industry. It therefore calls for combination of media with instructional methods to help learners decode the information.