Multimedia

The term multimedia indicates that more than one medium of communication is being used to deliver a message, idea, or objective. In the past, the concept was interpreted to mean using a filmstrip, 16mm film, or television as supportive teaching tools. Now, it means much, much more. Technological advances are being made and incorporated into the classroom setting at every level, and across all disciplines. The purpose of these emerging technologies to facilitate instruction and enhance learning.
Teachers today have a very difficult time keeping students' attention with pencil, paper, and book. With the technology that is available today, students are accustomed to the stimulation afforded by these new electronic stimuli . The computer games in the home, i.e. Sega, Nintendo, and the new interactive formats whereby the child is actually "in" the program, challenge educators "not to be boring". Many students are computer literate and have "fine tuned" internet skills.
Historically, computer labs have been a place for students to practice math and spelling drills. Today, students with computers have the capabilities to write math programs and design instructional presentations. The technology exists that will allow students to take field trips to far away places, have verbal exchange with the people there, make observations, write about what they saw on the trip, and never leave the classroom.
Many of the media tools available for school use are "interactive". This means they can be used with one or more technologies. For example, National Geographic has many computer programs that work with the laser disc, LCD panel, bar code reader, and television to make professional presentations that will keep students interested and involved in the learning process. This format offers text, full color graphics, sound, animation and video to enrich any lesson, in all disciplines. The combination of audio and video can allow designs for use with an entire group, or for a highly individualized instructional program.
If we are going to raise children who are well founded in experience and knowledge we must provide them with every advantage. The advances that are currently available assist teachers and parents make learning history, geography, reading, and the sciences real experiences, not merely words on a page. Students can have access to a wide range of information to answer questions, research topics, and solve problems in a very short time.