Expanding Reference through Cognitive Theory of Multimedia Learning Videos

Abstract

Academic librarians have utilized video tutorials for many years, however, the videos may not be useful or usefully shared. Cognitive theory of multimedia learning (CTML) provides evidence-based design principles for librarians to create instructional videos that can expand reference support. Meaningful learning through video can be uniquely integrated into students' academic experience. The author applied CTML to videos on course assignments and then utilized the learning management system to send them to students enrolled in the course. This study builds upon the evidence-based conclusions of CTML and contributes an innovative way to integrate reference into the student experience. This is an important contribution as librarians seek to scale and expand reference support to in-person, online, and hybrid learning environments.