| This study had three primary objectives set to overcome the challenges of using multimedia technology efficiently for educational purposes and promote the utilization of this technology in learning environments: (1) Design, develop, and implement an advanced Web-based learning system, called the Multimedia Management and Presentation System (MMPS), with a set of features capable of facilitating multimedia-supported instruction. (2) Evaluate learners' experiences with the MMPS tool and their perceptions on the effectiveness of the tool in supporting their learning activities. (3) Assess the effectiveness of the MMPS tool in facilitating and promoting the use of multimedia in learning communities.;In this study, the researcher used design research as the research methodology and analyzed various theories and principles associated with the concepts of learning, instruction, and multimedia. His findings led the researcher to the development of the MMPS application designed to facilitate multimedia-supported instruction by focusing on three important issues: (1) Overcome major technical barriers that are related to the use of physical media products (e.g., DVDs, CDs, videocassettes, or audiotapes) in the classroom. (2) Encourage the use of multimedia in learning environments. (3) Promote active learning and facilitate knowledge construction.;The MMPS tool makes it possible for instructors, not only to prepare instructional multimedia projects and integrate them into their curricula, but also to store those projects for future use. Similarly, the tool also allows learners to create individual or team multimedia projects that can be used as part of class exercises or self-learning activities.;The researcher evaluated the tool in a graduate-level learning environment. Participants' positive perceptions on the effectiveness of the tool in supporting various learning activities (e.g., self-paced learning, knowledge sharing, and demonstrating what they have learned in class exercises) together with their overall level of satisfaction with the MMPS tool can be given as some of the outcomes of the evaluation process.;Finally, participants' opinions on the usefulness and ease of use of the features that came with the MMPS tool helped the researcher determine some potential areas where making improvements can enhance the tool's capabilities and make it serve better in learning communities in the future. |
