Hi everyone. The attached video was developed to provide a guide to laptop buyers. It consists of a list of features that laptop buyer must check before buying a laptop.

https://www.canva.com/design/DAExfAltuCM/share/preview?token=3n5c7xj7w0h4t-d2IrLHCA&role=EDITOR&utm_content=DAExfAltuCM&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link&utm_source=sharebutton

The multimedia principles and learning theories present

This is the question many of you ask yourselves when you are looking to buy a laptop. This video guides you through the selection process to help you make the best choice. I used video editing tool (Canva.com) to create attractive, engaging, appealing content. Video editing illustrates why multimedia learning is better that the usual learning. The SAMR model is also illustrated throught the video. In the SAMR Model, technology is used to substitute, augment, modify, and redefine learning (Kurt, “Instructional Design Models and Theories). To explain the concept, the theoretical concepts learned through the course are replaced by computer generated content. In multimedia learning, number of pictures, videos, and typewritten content is combined using technology to make a video that summarize a wide range of content (Mayer, 2002). According to Mayer (2014), the combination helps the viewers to easily access a wide range of information in a single video (augmented content). Modification and redefinition of learning is also evident since video editing promotes creativity. An educational video makes it much easier to convey knowledge with a big audience than it is to distribute books and articles about all the sources utilized in research. If someone conducts a study that results in a large amount of paperwork, it may be easier to present the findings using a brief or detailed video, allowing knowledge transfer to be easier.

Learning Outcomes

In this section, the content of the video is presented in the written text. This helps the viewers to follow the video as they read the text to improve understanding. The cognitive theory of multimedia learning (2011) states that people understand better when multimedia content is used alongside written text. The video teach viewers about the features to look for when buying a laptop.

Size and form factor

You’ll want to make sure you get the proper size for you based on what you want to do with your next laptop. Form factor includes use cases such as gaming, video editing, programming, etc. Laptops often range in size from 11.6 to 17.3 inches. Look for laptops with a 12.5-inch or 13.3-inch screen and a weight of 1 to 1.5 kg.

Mind the brand

The selection of your laptop is as good as the selection of its manufacturer. Laptop Mag reviews every major brand in their annual Tech Support Showdown. Apple took first spot in 2020, followed by the year’s big story: Razer, with Dell rounding out the top three.

The Operating System

Selecting the appropriate Operating System (OS) is the first and most crucial step, as it sets the working environment. As a result, be sure the pre-installed OS suits your requirements.

Windows

  • The Latest version is Windows 11.
  • Intuitive GUI, easy to use.
  • Ideal platform for study and work.
  • Most devices are Windows compatible.

Mac OS

  • Latest version is macOS 10.15 ‘Catalina’.
  • Simplified user interface.
  • Less vulnerable to security lapses.
  • Ease of multitasking for robust users.

Linux

  • Open-source operating system.
  • Reliable and does not compromise performance
  • Secure to malicious programmes.
  • Supports wide range of programming languages for coders.

RAM

More RAM allows more applications to run simultaneously and more data to be instantly accessed by the system at any given time, which is useful for operations like gaming, programming, and photo & video editing. The more RAM your laptop has, the faster it will be able to access data and the more apps it will be able to run at once. A minimum of 4GB of RAM is required. Look for 8GB or more if you utilize a lot of high-powered software.

Battery Capacity

Battery life affects the portability of a laptop. Rather than focusing on the manufacturer’s stated number of hours, check at the battery’s rating in Watt-hours (Wh) or milliamp-hours (mAh). The battery will last longer if the number is higher. You need a battery that can last as long as you are out of charging areas. I would say 5 hours minimum.

The CPU

Consider your laptop’s CPU (central processing unit) as its heartbeat. When it comes to processors, Intel’s Core-based lineup is unrivaled. Core i3, Core i5, and Core i7 processors will most likely be seen in new laptops.

Core i3 processors are found in entry-level laptops.

Core i5 processors are found in the majority of mid-range laptops.

Core i7 processors are found in higher-end laptops. While the Core i7 provides the finest performance, it can generate a lot of heat from the device’s bottom.

Drive selection

HDD used to be all the rage, but they’ve fallen out of favor in recent years, particularly in thin and light laptops. They are slow, bulky, and emit substantial heat and noise. A solid state drive (SSD) is faster, operates quietly, and may be put in a form factor that reduces the weight and bulk of a laptop.

Screen quality

Screen resolution is crucial, depending on how you intend to use your laptop. A full HD screen is 1920 x 1080 pixels. This will provide excellent image quality as well as plenty of space for your windows to be visible.

References

Mayer, R. E. (2002). Multimedia learning. Psychology of Learning and Motivation, 41, 85-139.

Kurt, S. “Instructional Design Models and Theories,” in Educational Technology, December 9, 2015. Retrieved from https://educationaltechnology.net/instructional-design-models-and-theories

Cognitive Theory of Multimedia Learning. (2011). In ETEC510: Design Wiki. http://etec.ctlt.ubc.ca/510wiki/Cognitive_Theory_of_Multimedia_Learning.

Mayer, R. E. (Ed.). (2014). The Cambridge Handbook of Multimedia Learning (2nd ed.). Cambridge University Press. https://doi.org/10.1017/CBO9781139547369.