What does 'multimedia narrative' refer to?

A multimedia narrative refers to a combination of various media forms, which can include text, images, audio, video, and interactive elements. This approach enhances storytelling by utilizing different formats to engage an audience more fully and convey complex messages in a dynamic way.

By integrating diverse media types, a multimedia narrative creates a richer experience, allowing the audience to explore the story from multiple angles and perspectives, which is not possible with a single medium alone. For instance, a documentary might blend interviews, archival footage, and infographics to tell a comprehensive story, demonstrating how various formats can complement each other and enhance overall understanding.

In contrast, a story told entirely through text would not qualify as multimedia since it lacks the use of multiple forms. A single visual image is limited to conveying a singular concept, and a series of unrelated visuals does not create a coherent narrative. Thus, the essence of a multimedia narrative lies in its integrative approach to storytelling through various media.