Enhancing Learning From Educational Media Through Attention-Directing Cues

• In Event: 45.028 - Technologies to Construct Knowledge

Abstract

A critical component of translating viewing educational media to learning is looking at the correct information on screen. Little is known, however, about whether attention-directing cues directly impact learning. The present study experimentally investigated how attention-directing modifications to educational media clips impacted vocabulary learning in a diverse sample of 80 low-income preschoolers. Children viewed two educational clips in their original form with few attention-directing elements, and two clips in a modified form with added visual and sound elements to direct attention to critical information and parts of the screen. Results indicate that the clips enhanced with attention-directing cues benefited multiple forms of vocabulary learning, highlighting the utility of embedding attention-orienting elements in media to support children’s learning.

Authors

• Preeti Ganesh Samudra, New York University

• Susan B. Neuman, New York University

• Kevin M. Wong, Pepperdine University