My research interest is the effects of perceived visual attractiveness of learning materials on learning motivation. So, motivation is a keyword of my research interest.
Because of the research interest, the section of "II. Text and Graphics" in Keller and Burkman (1993) attracted my attention most. However, the second paragraph of the section made me really depressed.
This section is based on the assumption that the careful use of text features such as type, graphics, page design, and language can help influence motivation to learn, although primary emphasis remains on teaching methods and the content to be taught. Since the research base regarding motivating learners via the courseware media (whether print, video, computer, or other means) is not adequate, we must draw upon the experience and opinions of expert practitioners for principles relating motivation to text and graphics. Such experts include writers, graphic designers, and designers of print instructional materials.
(Keller & Burkman, 1993, p. 30)
Even the famous Keller depends on non-researchers!!!
What makes me even more depressed is the fact that there is no agreed way to measure motivation. My adviser suggested me to read an article because it measures motivation. The tool the study used to measure motivation was the Technology Acceptance Model. However, I'm not convinced the validity of the method.
Anyone knows about research on the relationship between motivation and visual design? Or on how to measure motivation?
There seem to be enough motivational strategies. I'd like to learn about research on motivation not practices!
Kei you raise a great question that I don't know if I have the answer to. As Keller states one have to depend on their own experiences on motivation.
ReplyDeleteI would say this is something very hard to research due the subjectivity between people on what motivates them.