ABSTRACT
The idea behind learning from animations is that some topics are hard to teach through text or static pictures. These include processes showing movement, dynamics, procedures or steps in solving a problem. When learning from animations, students watch short animated movies showing dynamic processes, such as how the heart beats or how to solve a maths problem. Compared to looking at static images in a textbook, animations can be better at revealing movement and speed. They can show how an expert tackles a difficult problem through a worked example. To be successful, animations should highlight the relevant parts and zoom into the most important movement. Compared to static images, animations show movement and speed directly, without a need for arrows to indicate the direction or rate of flow. Research has led to a set of animation design principles for successful learning.
