The Power of Signaling: Insights from Prospective Instructional Designers in Canvas Course Design
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.47941/jep.3588Keywords:
Signaling Principle, Cognitive Theory of Multimedia Learning, Instructional Design, Learning Management Systems, CanvasAbstract
Purpose: This qualitative study investigates how prospective instructional designers perceive and apply the signaling principle in Canvas course design. Grounded in the Cognitive Theory of Multimedia Learning (CTML), the study examines how signaling influences learner engagement and comprehension within digital learning environments.
Methodology: Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with seven graduate students enrolled in instructional technology courses at a public university in the Midwestern United States. Prior to the interviews, each participant interacted with a Canvas-based course intentionally designed with signaling elements, including bolded text, color-coded highlights, directional arrows, and square shapes. The data were analyzed using thematic analysis.
Findings: Thematic analysis of interview transcripts revealed that signaling enhanced learner engagement, directed attention to key content, and promoted deeper understanding. Participants also reported increased awareness of the strategic role of signaling in instructional design and expressed intentions to incorporate signaling principles into their future course designs.
Unique Contribution to Theory, Policy, and Practice: This study contributes to theory by extending the application of the Cognitive Theory of Multimedia Learning (CTML) to real-world instructional design practices within learning management systems like Canvas. It offers practical insights for educators and instructional designers on effectively integrating signaling techniques to improve learner engagement and comprehension. Additionally, the findings inform policy and curriculum development in instructional design programs by emphasizing the importance of explicitly teaching evidence-based multimedia principles.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Tweissi, Qusai Adel Issa, Maache, Nour El Houda, Owusu Afriyie, Seth, Professor Jesse Strycker, Professor Ward Randolph, Adah
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