To: Darius Zhang
From: Dave Borrel
Date: October 18th 2021.
Subject: Peer Review for Multimedia Learning Research Proposal by Darius Zhang.
Thank you for providing a concise description of what the intended research proposal will investigate. It is a pleasure to read and I hope that my overall review and suggested comments below can be helpful as the document develops.
First Impressions:
The proposal reads well and explores the potential benefits of integrating multimedia modalities with in person learning in a university setting. The research methods stand out as the areas of inquiry investigate both parties that participate in learning.
Organization:
- The document logically flows from more general to specific as it transitions from the Introduction to the Statement of the Problem.
- The headings have a clear label and the scope contains easily understandable questions.
- The structure matches what is required for a formal research proposal.
- There needs to be a conclusion and a section at the beginning that contains following elements: To, From, Date, and Subject. Both these elements are mentioned in the assignment instructions as well as the examples from the text.
Introduction and Proposed Solution:
The introduction is structured well as it links something more general such as the pandemic with a specific problem that students face as they transition back to in-person class. Although there is a clear definition of multimedia in the Proposed Solution section, defining it even earlier within the introduction would remove an ambiguity around its meaning. It is clear that multimedia may improve learning. However, more detail into the drawbacks from traditional learning methods may help to further persuade readers into investing into multimedia methods.
Proposed Solution and Scope:
The solution that is being discussed is clear and has a realistic timeline of how professors can deliver this type of learning modality. Additionally the questions of inquiry encapsulate both the points of view of the student and the professors who deliver the class.
Methods and Qualifications:
Using surveys is an excellent method that can be used to gather many points of data in a shorter time frame compared to interviews. It is also apparent that your qualifications and experience with multimedia learning can be insightful to those who may not be as familiar with this process.
Grammar/Typos:
- Although the use of “stymying” in the introduction works grammatically, the use of alternative words such as, “inhibit” or “slow” may help improve the flow of that sentence.
- Generally the sentences are well formed, however, it is important to watch out for minor typos such as “…the survey results will show attitudes from both sides, it allows…”
Highlights and Weaknesses:
- As the education system readjusts to life post-pandemic, it is important to evaluate the most effective methods for learning
- This is a well written document and has the potential for an interesting conclusion once the data collection process is complete.
- Certain points in the proposal may benefit from further explanation in order to help entice the reader to come to a decision. The specific sections include:
- Reasons why multimedia learning could supplement in person learning methods.
- More description of what the problem multimedia is trying to solve.
Audience:
- Include a short sentence description of the audience that this document is suited for.
Concluding Comments:
Overall, this research proposal makes it clear that the combination of both in person and online delivery of course material is a more effective way to teach material. Some suggestions of the suggestions below may help to make this document even more effective than it already is.
- Adding a definition for multimedia learning earlier in the introduction (a sentence or parenthetical definition) could help improve clarity at the start.
- Some more elaboration and additional detail for how multimedia learning is more effective than traditional learning can help persuade the reader even more.
- Adding a conclusion and section with, To, From, Date, and Subject.
I hope that my suggestions and comments are helpful as the next steps involve progressing through with this document. Please do not hesitate to contact me for any additional questions.
Enclosed: https://blogs.ubc.ca/engl301-99a-2021wa/2021/10/15/85879/
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