Designing multimedia: seven discourses

This paper proposes that new design discourses are necessary if interactive learning resources are to effectively combine the skills of all members of the development team. As educational products take shape, there are numerous discourses between members of the team that lead to the development of an effective interactive resource. This paper explores some of those discourses and illustrates their impact on educational multimedia products. The discourses emphasize the importance on interactive design and the conceptualization of the learner's role as an active participant in the learning environment if the resultant product is to be engaging and meaningful.