The Impact of Multimedia Application Based on the Van Merrienboer Model on Learning Complex Subjects

Abstract

In recent years, new technologies have expanded, enabling the creation of novel learning environments where information is presented through various frameworks and in flexible ways. One such dynamic environment is the multimedia learning environment. The purpose of this research is to examine the impact of applying multimedia based on the Van Merriënboer model on learning complex subjects with an emphasis on enhancing critical thinking skills in three areas: evaluation, deductive reasoning, and inductive reasoning. This research is applied in terms of its objective, quantitative in terms of data nature, and quasi-experimental in terms of execution method, conducted using a pre-test - post-test design with a control group. The study was conducted in two stages. In the first stage, an educational package for the Thinking and Research course was designed and prepared based on the Van Merriënboer multimedia model, focusing on the skills of evaluation, deductive reasoning, and inductive reasoning. In the second stage, the impact of using the prepared educational package on the skills of evaluation, deductive reasoning, and inductive reasoning was evaluated using a quasi-experimental method based on a pre-test - post-test design. The participants consisted of 30 sixth-grade students, selected using simple random sampling and divided into two groups of 15. The experimental group studied the Thinking and Research course based on the educational package for 10 weeks, while the control group studied the same course using only the standard textbook. The teacher and all environmental facilities, except for the educational package, were the same in both classes. The collected data were analyzed using covariance statistical methods. The results showed that teaching Thinking and Research based on the prepared educational package had a significant impact on the skills of evaluation, deductive reasoning, and inductive reasoning in the experimental group (P < 0.05). Based on the results of this study, the application of the Thinking and Research educational package based on the Van Merriënboer model increases critical thinking skills in the three areas of evaluation, deductive reasoning, and inductive reasoning. Therefore, curriculum planners in the field of thinking education can use the capabilities of this multimedia product based on the Van Merriënboer model to learn complex subjects with an emphasis on enhancing critical thinking skills.