Exploring the Influence of Integrating an Instructor in Online Video: An Eye Tracking Study

• In Event: 34.081 - Investigating Course Modality, Motivation, Engagement, Self-Efficacy, and Self-Directed Learning

Abstract

Many popular online education platforms use instructional videos that integrate a real instructor. The current study aimed to explore how instructor presence in online videos influences learning, visual attention, and learner perceptions. Participants watched two videos of varied content difficulty while their eye movements were recorded. Afterwards, participants reported their cognitive load, perceived learning, satisfaction, and situational interest. Learning from the two videos was measured using retention and transfer questions. Results indicated the instructor frame attracted a significant amount of attention for both videos. Findings also showed instructor presence improved learners’ ability to transfer information from the difficult topic; reduced learners’ cognitive load for the difficult topic; and increased their perceived learning, satisfaction, and situational interest for both topics.

Authors

• Jiahui Wang, Kent State University

• Pasha Antonenko, University of Florida

• Kara M. Dawson, University of Florida

• Carole R. Beal, University of Florida

• Andreas Keil, University of Florida

• Matthew H. Schneps, University of Massachusetts - Boston