Animated versus Static Images of Team Processes to Affect Knowledge Acquisition and Learning Efficiency

In this paper, the authors replicated previous work demonstrating that animating mechanical systems leads to more efficient knowledge acquisition and extended it by applying the same processes to human systems. Based on these data, it appears that using static images, rather than animated human relationships within a team structure, better supports learning of procedural and conceptual knowledge by novices. Additionally, using static images led to a reduction in the amount of effort required to apply that knowledge. It remains unclear however, if the static images will continue to support knowledge retention long-term.