Students at the centre: non-lineal narratives and self-conscious learning

This paper reflects on the design and evaluation of a multimedia learning tool developed for students of qualitative research. Two issues are explored which are pertinent to the introduction of multimedia networked learning tools into existing
teaching and learning cultures. First, the concept of the non-lineal — in multimedia narratives, in the ethnographic research process, in the learning process and in relation to teaching strategies. Second, drawing from evaluations of the multimedia tool the idea of selfconscious multilineal learning, and continuities between hypermedia learning and conventional teaching and learning practices are discussed. Finally the theoretical and practical implications of these discussions are related to the question of developing ‘student-centred learning’.