ABSTRACT
Interactive Multimedia (IMM) package has a greater potential of supporting individual
differences of learners due to its inherent strength of media attributes. This study was
carried out to explore the design features of IMM, which was specially designed to
support the open and distant learners, studying Microbiology as a part of the B.Sc.
Degree program, of the Open University of Sri Lanka (OUSL), with the purpose of
explaining the dynamic abstract concepts in Microbiology. When designing the IMM
emphasis was placed on the design features, interface design in particular, in order
to help the learners to achieve a meaningful learning experience. The purpose of this
research paper is to explore learner perceptions of the design features of the IMM
and, in developing a more user friendly, authentic instructional package. As such,
quantitative and qualitative research methods were used by means of
questionnaires, interviews and observations. Evaluation reveals many supportive and
constructive outcomes, and suggests improvements in providing a better support for
learners studying science subjects at a distance. In the context of the university using
new technologies, especially for delivery, the results of this study would be a great
asset.
Keywords: animation, interactive multimedia, learner perception, microbiology.
Open and distance learning has increased access to education globally, using various
instructional strategies giving high priority to learner centeredness. In this system the learner is
empowered to take greater responsibility for their own learning by incorporating a wider range
of teaching methods. Therefore, Interactive Multimedia (IMM) technology scores exceptionally
well having the strength of its media attributes supporting individual differences of learners by
providing various learning experiences enabling them to achieve meaningful learning.
Interactive multimedia has a great potential as an effective instructional tool to use particularly
on subject areas, which are difficult to visualize. An IMM was developed to support the distant
learners, studying Microbiology as a part of the B.Sc. Degree program in the Faculty of Natural
Sciences of the Open University of Sri Lanka (OUSL), with the purpose of explaining the
dynamic abstract concepts which are hard to visualize in lengthy explanations in print based
course material. At present, printed material is the core medium of teaching, supported by