Supporting the use of multiple representations in multimedia learning environments

Many learning environments contain multiple representations. Using them can lead to a deeper level of cognitive processing when learners make mental transformations between representations. However, research has revealed two problems. First, it has been shown that learners often do not make spontaneous use of such multiple options. Second, the translation process is often difficult. The papers presented in this symposium aim at supporting learners' use of multiple representations as well as their translation process. The first study provided learners with different types of representations and asked them to translate those into other representations. The second study examined the effectiveness of contextual scaffolds in computer simulations. The third study aimed at supporting hypermedia learning with multiple representations by means of metacognitive modelling and prompting of representational awareness. The fourth study investigated if sequencing dynamic representations combined with explicit instruction to relate and translate between representations has a positive effect on learning outcomes.