Cross-platform learning: children's learning from multiple media

Educational media projects often span several platforms (e.g., games, TV, hands-on materials), under the assumption that multiple platforms elicit greater learning than a single medium. To test this assumption, 672 fourth graders were assigned to use different combinations of math-based Cyberchase media for eight weeks: DVD Only, Web Only, DVD + Web, All Materials, or No Exposure (control). Mathematical problem solving was assessed via hands-on, pretest-posttest tasks, and by tracking software that recorded performance in three Cyberchase online games. Consistent with past research, significantly greater problem solving gains appeared among Cyberchase users than the control group. Pre-post effects were often stronger in the DVD + Web group than in groups that used either medium alone. Moreover, users of multiple media employed significantly more sophisticated mathematical strategies -- and produced more correct responses -- while playing online games. Thus, a unique benefit of cross-platform learning seems to lie in transfer of learning, i.e., applying educational content learned from one medium (e.g., television) to support learning in another medium (e.g., games), resulting in richer engagement and greater posttest gains.