Drawing Parallels between Multimedia Learning and Applied Behavioural Analysis

For my first blog post, I decided to incorporate the topic of Applied Behavioural Analysis (ABA) with multimedia learning. More specifically, how multimedia learning and ABA therapy can be used to assist individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). This topic is a very interesting parallel that really displays the wide range of benefits that effective multimedia learning material holds.

ASD encompasses a range of developmental disabilities that can cause many challenges behaviorally, socially, and communicatively. ASD proposes academic challenges, so finding modes of teaching that work for each individual is crucial. ABA therapy, as described in the video below, is a technique used for individuals with ASD to learn valuable skills within an appropriate environment. ABA therapy encompasses many multimedia learning practices, as these techniques can be oriented towards any type of learning style. When teaching individuals with ASD, it is important to reduce as many extraneous means to make it easy for the individual to focus solely on the task at hand. Much like multimedia learning, ABA therapy finds using words and graphics in teaching styles much more effective than words or graphics alone.

Overall, in many ways, ABA therapy encompasses many of the principles of multimedia learning. Effective multimedia learning strategies are very relevant to ABA therapy because of the necessity to keep information concise, simple, and engaging for the individual.

Khan, T. M. (2010). The effects of multimedia learning on children with different special education needs. Procedia – Social and Behavioral Sciences, 2(2), 4341–4345. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.sbspro.2010.03.690

1 Comment

  1. kaylasawchenko

    I found your blog post very interesting, James. You provided a brief yet clear explanation of your topic. I found your topic very interesting and it got me thinking. I always found the education system character to a specific student. Although the specific student is often the majority, it leaves behind those students that do not follow the majority. It is important to provide equal opportunities to each student and character to their needs. ABA seems to close that gap which I find an excellent starting point.

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