Abstract
This MPS internship project is made up of two components that reflect the behind-the-scenes role the author held in the Shark Research and Conservation Program (SRC) at the University of Miami. The first component was the development of a training manual for the Permit Coordinator position within SRC. The second component involved translating a written curriculum, previously developed by The Deering Estate in partnership with SRC, into a video series for SRC’s broad network of educational partners to use. Constructing effective technical and educational multimedia tools requires designers to consider current research in learning theory and instructional best practices. Most multimedia learning theory is based on cognitive learning theory, which is focused on the process of how the mind processes and incorporates new knowledge. The research that has been conducted in this field has resulted in ten multimedia design principles that are grounded in learning theory and evidence-based instructional techniques. The resultant multimedia tools from this project were created using these multimedia design principles to streamline and enhance logistical aspects of the research, outreach, and education conducted by the SRC team, increase SRC’s suite of online learning tools, and provide equitable learning experiences. Although measuring the effectiveness of these tools was not in the scope of this project, future MPS projects could focus on the assessment of multimedia tool design.