Autor: Jan Wohlmuth

As I transition into the experimentation phase of my research, I’m eager to dive into the world of instructional design with a hands-on approach. My first experiment will focus on comparing illustrated and animated instructions, with origami as the chosen task. Why origami? According to my research, motor skills are easier to learn with animated instructions, thanks to a concept called mirror neurons.

Mirror Neurons

Mirror neurons are special cells in our brains that fire both when we perform an action ourselves and when we see someone else perform the same action. This mirroring effect helps us learn and understand motor skills more effectively, making animated instructions particularly suitable for tasks like origami. Also origami is a simple yet versatile art form that only requires a piece of paper to get started. With its various folds of different difficulties, it offers the perfect canvas for my experiment.

Origami

Before diving into the experiment, I want to take a moment to explore what origami is and its history. Origami is the Japanese art of paper folding, derived from two words: „ori“ meaning folding and „kami“ meaning paper. It dates back to the 17th century and has since evolved into a globally recognized form of artistic expression and education.

Choosing the right fold

Now onto the task of finding suitable instructions for my experiment. I want instructions that strike a balance between complexity and accessibility. They shouldn’t be too simple, as I want to challenge participants and observe potential differences between illustrated and animated instructions. However, they also shouldn’t be overly difficult, as I want participants to be able to complete them with some practice. Additionally they should contain one tricky step to see how participants fare with each type of instruction.

Origami Duck

To ensure the quality of my experiment, I’ve decided to test out several instructions on my own before selecting the final ones. This hands-on approach will help me choose the difficulty level and identify any potential issues or struggles. After some time I settled on an instruction about an origami duck which has the right level of difficulty for beginners.

Ultimately my goal is to design a set of instructions that will provide valuable insights into the effectiveness of illustrated versus animated instruction methods. With my plans in place I’m excited to embark on this journey of experimentation.

Sources:

https://www.psychologicalscience.org/observer/mirror-neurons-how-we-reflect-on-behavior

https://study.com/academy/lesson/history-of-origami.html#:~:text=The art of paper folding was popularized in Japan, but,to decorate temples and shrines.

https://origami.me

In the previous semester, I explored the advantages and disadvantages of static and dynamic instructions to optimize user understanding. Animated instructions were found to excel in teaching motor skills, offering users control over the pace of instruction and aiding in step-by-step comprehension. However, they may be less effective for highly complex topics and could lead to cognitive overload if not properly segmented. On the other hand, illustrated instructions shine in conveying detailed information for complex subjects and meet the needs of varied learning preferences. They are preferred in scenarios where physical manuals are necessary.

This semester, I’m shifting towards experimentation. I’ll be conducting small-scale experiments to delve deeper into the effectiveness of both instructional methods. Looking back, my discussions about static versus dynamic instructions gave me lots to think about. I learned about how our brains process information and how visuals can help or hinder that process. Now, it’s time to put some of those ideas to the test.

What is planned?

One idea is to compare illustrated instructions with animated ones. I could see myself for example designing instructions on how to fold origami. I could create both types of instructions and see which one works better. Here I would like to focus on quality research instead of quantitative research because it will be hard to find enough participants to have a significant outcome. So the plan is to find a few people to test these instructions on and maybe have a little interview or questionnaire afterwards to find potential struggle points or if they preferred pictures or animations. These conversations can give me deeper insights into how people interact with instructional materials.

Another idea is to analyze existing experiments about the topic of illustrated vs animated illustration. There is a lot of research out there already and I can learn from what’s been done before. By taking a deeper look into these studies I can pick up some tips to make my own experiments better and maybe compare some outcomes.

In summary, this semester is all about starting to experiment and seeing what works in instructional design. By keeping things simple and focusing on quality, I am sure I will be able to uncover some interesting insights in the field of instructional design.

In this last blog post I would like to explore the advantages and disadvantages of both approaches, shedding light on when to use each method to optimize user understanding.

Advantages of Animated/Video Instructions:

• Motor Skill Learning: Animated instructions excel in teaching motor skills, leveraging the mirror-neuron system for enhanced comprehension. Activities like folding origami or tying knots benefit from dynamic visualizations.

• User Control: Giving users control over the pace of instruction, with features like pause, replay, or speed adjustment, provides a personalized learning experience.

• Step-by-Step Comprehension: Complex procedures are better broken down into smaller, sequential parts in animated instructions, aiding in step-by-step comprehension.

Disadvantages of Animated/Video Instructions:

• Effectiveness in Highly Complex Topics: Animated instructions may be less effective when dealing with intricate and complicated subjects, such as understanding weather maps. Static instructions may prove more suitable for conveying detailed information.
• Potential Cognitive Overload: Without proper segmentation and clarity, animated instructions might overwhelm users, leading to cognitive overload and reduced understanding.
• Varied Effectiveness: Studies show mixed results regarding the effectiveness of animated instructions compared to static ones. Factors such as design, content, and user preferences play a crucial role.

When to Choose Illustrated Instructions:

• Highly Complex Topics: For subjects that require detailed analysis and where each element holds significance, illustrated instructions can provide a clearer and more focused presentation.
• Varied Learning Preferences: Some users may prefer still images and text over dynamic visuals. Offering both options caters to diverse learning styles.
• Printed Manuals: In scenarios where physical manuals are preferred or necessary, illustrated instructions maintain relevance.

When to Choose Animated/Video Instructions:

• Motor Skill Acquisition: Tasks involving physical actions or manipulations benefit from animated instructions, leveraging the mirror-neuron system for effective learning.
• Interactive Learning: Animated instructions allow for interactive elements, enhancing engagement and knowledge retention. Users can actively participate in the learning process.
• User Engagement: In scenarios where maintaining user interest is crucial, animated instructions can captivate attention and deliver information in an engaging manner.

Conclusion:

In instructional design, the choice between illustrated and animated instructions depends on the nature of the content, the complexity of the subject matter, and the preferences of the target audience. By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of each approach, instructional designers can craft effective learning experiences that cater to diverse needs and optimize user comprehension. Whether opting for the clarity of still images or the dynamism of animations, the key lies in aligning the chosen medium with the instructional goals and the special characteristics of the learning material.

In this blogpost I would like to focus on the topic of cognitive load and how it can be used to optimize cognitive capacity in animated instructions. Three sets of design guidelines emerge from this research.

Guidelines to Tame Complexity

Decrease intrinsic cognitive load

(How hard a task is for your brain to handle without considering external factors)

• Sequence of simple-to-complex whole tasks: Start with animated models that demand the integration of basic skills and knowledge. Gradually increase complexity, like transitioning from a pin code of four numbers to six.
• Pretraining: Introduce isolated components before animated interactions. For instance, familiarize learners with key terms before immersing them in an animated model.

Guidelines to Sidestep Obstacles

Decrease extraneous cognitive load

(The mental effort caused by unnecessary or irrelevant information during a task)

• Pacing: Empower learners to control the tempo of the animated model. Features like pause, play, or slider bars provide flexibility.
• Segmentation: Divide animated models into meaningful segments, aligning with critical parts of a procedure or process.
• Modality principle: Present textual explanations in spoken format within animated models.
• Contiguity principle: Ensure textual explanations are presented consistently in time or space within the animated model.
• Signaling or cueing: Integrate cues to guide attention and prevent unnecessary visual searches.

Guidelines to Boost Engagement

Increase germane cognitive load

(The mental effort related to meaningful learning and understanding of new information during a task)

• Expectancy-driven methods: Prompt learners to predict the next steps in a process within animated models.
• Subgoaling: Encourage learners to group coherent steps into meaningful subgoals.
• Imagination: Stimulate learners to imagine procedures and concepts presented in animated models.
• Variability: Present problems that vary in relevant features, keeping learners engaged and adaptable.

In summary, these guidelines provide an overall framework for creating impactful animated models. It serves as a roadmap for designers to balance complexity, user engagement, and cognitive load. Following these principles can elevate animated models from simple visuals to effective tools for comprehension building an intersection of cognition and creativity.

Sources:

https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.3102/0034654308320320

https://www.skillcast.com/blog/instructional-design-best-practices

Traditionally assembly instructions have been conveyed through manuals filled with text and illustrations. However, in the global landscape, designing assembly instructions without words becomes essential for a universal understanding.

Visual communication has emerged as a game-changer in assembly instructions. It serves as a universal language, breaking down language barriers and catering to a diverse audience. Here are some reasons why designing assembly instructions without words is gaining popularity:

1. Increased Clarity and Accuracy:

Visual communication excels in conveying complex information with clarity. Step-by-step visual guides can seamlessly communicate the assembly process, making it more accessible for users to comprehend and follow. Crucial points and potential errors can be highlighted through images, contributing to a more accurate assembly process.

2. Time and Cost Savings:

Translation of text-based instructions into multiple languages is both time-consuming and expensive. Designing assembly instructions without words eliminates the need for translation, saving both time and money.

3. Improved User Experience:

People inherently learn better through images and visual aids. The use of images in assembly instructions enhances the overall user experience by reducing frustration and errors. Visual communication creates a more user-friendly environment, making the assembly process not just efficient but also enjoyable.

Examples of Successful Implementation:

There are a lot of companies which have successfully adopted a wordless approach to their assembly instructions, showcasing the power of visual communication:

IKEA Furniture Assembly:

IKEA, known for its flat-packed furniture, employs simple illustrations instead of text-based instructions. The result is an efficient and enjoyable assembly process that caters to a global customer base.

LEGO Building Instructions:

Lego’s wordless instructions cater to its diverse audience, including children. Step-by-step visual guides make the building process enjoyable for users of all ages.

Dyson Vacuum Cleaner Assembly:

Dyson utilizes simple visual guides for the assembly of its vacuum cleaners. The approach aligns with the company’s minimalist design philosophy.

Methods to Design Wordless Assembly Instructions:

To delve into the realm of assembly instructions without words, various methods and tools can be employed:

When crafting assembly instructions without words, various methods and tools come into play. One approach is sketching, where visual instructions are hand-sketched, offering flexibility in design and simplicity without the need for specialized software. Alternatively, vector graphics software like Adobe Illustrator is employed, providing the means to create precise illustrations and diagrams—ideal for technical illustrations with the added benefits of versatility and easy editing. Another option is utilizing flowchart software such as Lucidchart or Visio, which allows the creation of step-by-step diagrams, offering clear and easy-to-follow visual representations of the assembly process. For those seeking dynamic and engaging instructions, animation software like Adobe After Effects or Blender comes into play.

In conclusion, the shift towards designing assembly instructions without words is a powerful move towards universal understanding. Visual communication enhances clarity, saves time and costs, and elevates the overall user experience. Companies like IKEA, LEGO, and Dyson exemplify the success of this approach.

https://graphics.stanford.edu/papers/assembly_instructions/assembly.pdf

https://www.cadasio.com/post/designing-assembly-instructions-without-words

In this blogpost I would like to focus on the negative aspect of video instructions. When I first started researching about the topic I found a lot of articles stating that video or animated instructions are either equally or even less effective. Let’s take a closer look at why video work instructions might not be the best fit for everyone.

1. Learning Pace:

Video instructions lack the flexibility for users to learn at their own pace. Unlike written or image-based instructions that allow users to pause, rewind, and progress at their convenience, videos dictate the pace of learning. This limitation becomes evident when trying to understand multi-step procedures, as users may struggle to recall earlier steps once they’re halfway through a video. In contrast, static images or animated gifs in a well-designed work instruction allow users to navigate through steps at their own speed, enhancing the learning experience.

2. Scalability and Translations:

Creating a significant amount of video content, especially in different languages, is laborious and time-consuming. Translating or captioning videos adds to the complexity and cost. In contrast, simpler visual mediums like images and gifs are more adaptable and can be easily translated without a significant increase in workload.

3. Difficulty in Updates:

Updating video content can be complex, requiring a lot of editing and attention to detail. Textual or image-based instructions are more flexible, allowing for easier modifications. This flexibility is crucial in dynamic work environments where quick and efficient updates are essential.

4. Complexity in Creation:

Creating video work instructions involves processes like editing or cutting are adding unnecessary complexity. In situations where simplicity and user-friendliness are vital, simpler formats like images and gifs can convey the necessary information effectively without added complication.

5. Dependency on Internet Quality:

A significant drawback of video instructions is their dependency on a stable internet connection. In situations where the internet is not reliable, videos may lag, disrupting the learning experience. Opting for formats less reliant on internet quality, such as images and gifs, ensures a smoother learning process regardless of connection speed.

Conclusion:

In choosing between video and other visual mediums for work instructions, prioritize simplicity, flexibility, and user-friendliness. While videos have their place in instructional design, they might not be the most effective choice for procedural knowledge.

https://www.swipeguide.com/insights/video-work-instructions-bad-idea

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/299015309_Individual_and_co-operative_learning_with_interactive_animated_pictures

Introduction:

In this blog post I would like to focus on the evolution of safety Intructions on air planes.

In the past safety instructions only relied on text. This approach, as illustrated by the example of early airplane safety cards, was not only impractical but also potentially dangerous. The transition to illustrations marked a significant improvement, making instructions more accessible. However, illustrations can be prone to misunderstandings without proper context. Research shows that effective illustrations must be well-matched to the text, avoiding excessive details and emphasizing key elements. The role of captions in enhancing understanding becomes apparent, stressing the importance of a balanced approach in visual communication.

Photos vs. Illustrations:

Before illustrations became prevalent on boarding passes, photographs were the norm. Studies reveal that illustrations outperform photographs in conveying information due to their ability to focus attention. The simplicity and clarity of illustrations play a crucial role in their effectiveness.

IKEA is an example of effective illustrated instructions. However if the complexity of instructions increases, videos become more favorable. Explainer videos, in particular, prove invaluable for conveying complex information, as seen in health and safety guidelines.

Four Rules for Creating Effective Instructional Videos:

There are four rules for creating instructional videos. These guidelines serve as a practical framework for content creators to enhance the impact of their visual instructions.

1.) Use illustrations to highlight key points

2.) Minimize potentially distracting elements

3.) Incorporate written instructions

4.) Consider different Cultural Aspects

Sources:

https://explainvisually.co/en/pictures-vs-illustrations-vs-instructional-video-when-to-use-what-to-make-our-instruction-effective/

https://www.smithsonianmag.com/air-space-magazine/cards-180950298/

Introduction

In this blog post I would like to focus on a study that explores under which conditions video instructions aid the learning process. The study specifically focuses on the skill of tying nautical knots, aiming to demonstrate that interactive features can significantly improve learning outcomes under certain conditions.

Why nautical knots?

The researchers of the study opted for nautical knots as the subject for their investigation. This choice was motivated by several factors, including the continuous motor skill nature of knot tying, the convenience and repeatability of video demonstrations, and the potential for variations in complexity that match individual learning needs.

The Experiment

The study involved thirty-six participants with no prior experience in knot tying. They were divided into two groups: one exposed to non-interactive videos, and the other to interactive videos where learners could manipulate time-related parameters like speed and direction. The participants were tasked with learning four different nautical knots and their performance was evaluated based on learning times, viewing times, and practicing times.

Results:

The findings revealed a significant advantage for the interactive group. Learners exposed to interactive features demonstrated faster learning times, distributed their attention unevenly across video frames, and strategically used features like slow motion and time-lapse. The more challenging the knot, the more pronounced the benefits of interactivity.

The study also showed that learners consciously used interactive features to adapt the pace of information presentation to their cognitive processing needs. Despite variations in viewing times, interactive video viewers developed a better understanding of the processes, resulting in more efficient learning.

Conclusion:

The study shows that interactive videos are helpful for learning things like tying knots. But, it’s important to know that not all subjects benefit the same way. For example, when we try to learn complex ideas, like from weather maps, interactive features may not be as useful because these things are more abstract and harder to understand. To sum up he study suggests that interactive videos are great for learning skills like tying knots. It highlights that using interactive features should match what learners need in their minds.

Introduction:

In this bog post I would like to focus on an experiment I found concerning different instructional learning methods. The Experiment delves into the realm of motor skill acquisition, specifically focusing on origami paper-folding—a task tied to human movement. The study investigates whether narrated animations outshine their static graphic counterparts in aiding learners through this complex process.

The Task:

Origami, the ancient art of paper-folding, becomes the center point for this exploration. Traditionally, static diagrams presented the different steps of origami, requiring learners to deduce the transitions between the starting and ending states of each fold. This experiment introduces three instructional formats: narrated animation, single-static, and double-static graphics.

Thirty-two sixth-grade students participated in the study, randomly assigned to one of the three instructional conditions. The Viking Helmet construction, involving 13 steps, served as the chosen origami task. The animated version provided real-time narration for each fold, while the static versions showed single or double static diagrams, mimicking the animation’s start and end states without the dynamic transition.

Methods:

Participants were given the task of folding the Viking Helmet after viewing their assigned instructional format. Each group received narrated explanations with visual information. The hypothesis stated that students exposed to narrated animations would outperform those receiving narrated, static-image-based instructions.

Results:

The group that watched animated instructions did better than the group that saw only pictures. They learned the task faster and spent less time figuring it out. In the test, more students in the animated group could complete the task compared to the groups that saw only pictures.

The results of this Experiment support the idea that animated instructions are better for learning motor skills. Animated instructions, especially when someone is explaining in real-time, help people understand and learn complex tasks faster.

Conclusion:

From the findings of this Experiment, we can see that animated instructions are better than static pictures for learning motor skills. This study suggests that using animated instructions with real-time explanations is a strong way to improve learning outcomes. It sets the stage for more interesting and effective ways of teaching.

Introduction

In this blog entry I would like to focus on effective learning through animations. Even though learning with animations might sound like a perfect method, there are some facts to be aware of. Animations, despite their charm, come with a tricky trait that’s often overlooked. Animations are fleeting, like a passing breeze. This transitory nature can cause a bit of a memory challenge, especially when dealing with complex new stuff.

Animations don’t stick around for long in our memory unless we make a conscious effort to remember them. This can make it tough for learners when trying to grasp new, complicated information presented in animated form. Juggling current and past details for a full understanding can be quite a challenge.

Static vs. Animated

Now, think of static images like pictures. You can go back to them as many times as you want, like flipping through pages in a book. But animations don’t let you do that easily. This flexibility with static images might make them a better choice, reducing the memory challenge and making learning smoother.

A Peek into Human Evolution

Delving more into our learning journey, a fascinating revelation emerges—the human brain may have evolved a specialized memory mechanism tailored for animations, particularly those depicting human movement. This mechanism acts as a cognitive tool, facilitating understanding and learning through imitation—an innate ability akin to the way we observe and mimic others.

Neuroscience and the Mirror-Neuron System

The field of neuroscience offers valuable insights, notably the discovery of the mirror-neuron system. The mirror-neuron system shows that our brains light up in similar ways when we watch someone do something as when we do it ourselves. It’s as if our brains engage in a dance, enhancing our capacity to comprehend and replicate actions demonstrated in animations.

Exploring how animations, human movement, and memory connect helps us see that animations can be really helpful for learning certain things. If we understand how our minds work, we can make learning better by finding a good balance between fast animations and our natural way of learning by watching and copying.

So, to sum it up, learning with animations is like an exciting and varied world. Knowing about the difficulties and good things helps us use animations well, making learning more enjoyable and helping us understand things in new ways.