Split attention effect

The split-attention effect is a learning effect inherent within some poorly designed instructional materials. It is apparent when the same modality (e.g. visual) is used for various types of information within the same display. Users must split their attention between the materials, for example, an image and text, to understand the information being conveyed. The split-attention effect can occur physically through visual and auditory splits and temporally when time distances two pieces of information that should be connected.[1]

  1. ^ Schroeder, Noah L.; Cenkci, Ada T. (2018-09-01). "Spatial Contiguity and Spatial Split-Attention Effects in Multimedia Learning Environments: a Meta-Analysis". Educational Psychology Review. 30 (3): 679–701. doi:10.1007/s10648-018-9435-9. ISSN 1573-336X. S2CID 149463469.