Richard Mayer is an American educational psychologist known for his work in the field of multimedia learning. He has developed theories that explain how people learn from words and pictures, emphasizing the importance of integrating verbal and visual information to enhance understanding. His research has significantly influenced instructional design and educational practices. Mayer is best known for his Cognitive Theory of Multimedia Learning, which outlines principles for creating effective educational materials. He has authored numerous books and articles, contributing to the understanding of how technology can be used to improve learning outcomes in various settings, including online education and classroom instruction.