Is a type of multimedia in which the user is given the option in controlling the elements?

Linear Multimedia 

Linear Multimedia is a type of a multimedia that is designed to be presented in a sequential manner. It has a distinct beginning and end. It goes on a logical flow from a starting point to a conclusion.

It is usually intended for display purposes with not much interaction or distraction from the audience. Because of its nature where audience participation is not expected, Linear Multimedia may also be referred to as “Passive Multimedia.”

In this kind of presentation, the creator of the multimedia is in control.

This kind of media is preferential if interaction is not necessary in the presentation

Main goals include: to entertain, to transmit knowledge, and to make people familiar on a certain topic WITHOUT any form of diversion.

Examples may be:
o A powerpoint presentation
o A slideshow of pictures that goes on with a specific direction
o A storyline/ A movie
o An anime episode
o A Youtube video

Advantages:

• Audience gets to focus and concentrate on a specific topic.
• There is logical order in the presentation. Organized
• Presenter controls the flow of the presentation
• Effective when we need our audience to absorb the information well

Disadvantages:

• Minimal interactivity, or none at all
• Audience has no say on the topic they want to dwell into.

Non-Linear Multimedia

Non-linear multimedia is a nonsequential type of multimedia where the person’s participation is crucial.

In this type of media, the person needs to interact with a computer program, thus making him in control of the experience.

With the presence of an interface, the person and the computer interacts with each other.

From a starting point, the person using a nonlinear multimedia is given a range of options that, according to his own preferences, will lead him to a new information.

Examples may include:

o A Website
o A search engine’s home page
o A DvD menu screen
o A Youtube Channel
o An anime or Korean drama streaming site

Advantages:

• The person is in control and may use the multimedia according to his preferences and needs.

Disadvantages:

• Requires a level of computer literacy from the user
• May be unorganized if not used well.

Imagine a movie. Normally a movie goes on a linear format, starting from point A and ending on point B. The viewer watches and needs not to do anything in order to enjoy the movie. However, if viewed on a DvD, the viewer is now given the option to choose which scenes to watch, which subtitles to use, and can now even pause and rewound the movie. Awesome, right?