The following design principles by Clark & Mayer (2003) are based on empirical research.
- Multimedia Principle: Use words and graphics rather than words alone.
Using text in combination with graphics leads to better learning success than using text alone. So, the visualization of mathematical content should be a key element of all mathlets.
- Contiguity Principle: Place corresponding words and graphics near each other.
You can either integrate text directly into an applet (e.g. when using dynamic text) or place corresponding text close to it.
- Coherence Principle: Adding interesting material can hurt learning.
This principle means that you should avoid using unnecessary texts, graphics or sound only for decoration or to make things more interesting.
"When things have to be made interesting, it is because interest itself is wanting. Moreover, the phrase is a misnomer. The thing, the object, is no more interesting than it was before." (Dewey, 1913). Unrelated, decorative material distracts the students from the actual learning objective.
- Personalization Principle: Use conversational style.
Your material is easier to understand when you address the students directly. So, you should use the word "you" to address your students in explanations and tasks.