PGDEL/DECP03/Unit1/04

Uttarakhand Open University

Post Graduate Diploma in e-Learning

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DECP 03

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Unit 3.1 Multimedia Basics
Interactive Multimedia

Interactive multimedia applications fall into two categories. Some are linear, while others are non-linear. With linear media, users start at the beginning and progress through a set sequence of events until they reach the end. Most digital slide shows and plays would be examples of linear media. Non-linear media leaves the order of events to the discretion of the user. An interactive CD-ROM encyclopedia would be an example of non-linear media. There is no predefined order; users can enter or exit at any point and at any time.
Though working with multiple media is not new, the growth of computer based multimedia has definitely exploded over the past few years. There are many reasons for this growth :

1. Computer processing power and technology have improved, making it easier and more fun to work with media elements on the computer.
2. People throughout many industries have found new and beneficial ways of using multimedia applications, thereby creating a demand for multimedia technology.
3. The growth of the Web has spurred the growth of multimedia-as more and more multimedia applications are being designed for the Internet and the World Wide Web. Undoubtedly, this growth in multimedia will continue at an exponential rate as the technology continues to improve and people find more reasons to use it.

Work in progress, expect frequent changes. Help and feedback is welcome. See discussion page.