By Maristela PD - Embedding the video of the instructor in the lecture video is a very popular practice in online and blended university courses. As we include more technology in creating different multimedia learning options, the questions always remain about the effectiveness of each on promoting learning: Does it improve the learning outcomes? Do learners always pick the solution that is most beneficial for their learning? Can more media be detrimental to learning?

In this session, recall the basic principles of multimedia instruction based on the cognitive theory of multimedia learning, summarize the latest research on the topic, and caution against one-size-fits-all approach to instructional design. The participants were shown the most common “video in video” solutions and discussed what works for them as learners. Sharing the institutional practices and experiences with all participants was encouraged in the session. The participants left the session with the list of things to consider when making decisions on when and how to implement the video of the instructor’s face in online lecture videos.

The group discussion part of the session recording was edited out, for audio quality and participant privacy reasons.