The split-attention effect is a learning effect found in poorly designed instructional materials, appearing when the same modality, for example vision, is used to present multiple related pieces of information that a learner must mentally integrate. It occurs when a learner has to split their attention between separate elements, such as an image and its accompanying text, in order to make sense of the material, whether the split is physical, across separate visual or auditory sources, or temporal, when related information is presented at different times. The effect is grounded chiefly in research by John Sweller and colleagues including Paul Chandler, building on earlier studies such as Tarmizi and Sweller's 1988 work on guidance during mathematical problem solving.
Facts
Core ClaimThe split-attention effect is a learning impairment caused by poorly designed instructional material that forces learners to mentally integrate two or more sources of information, such as text and a diagram, that are separated in space or time, adding to extraneous cognitive load. 1 FAQs
How can instructional materials avoid the split-attention effect?
Integrate related text and diagrams in one display so learners do not have to split their attention.
Chandler and Sweller found through empirical study that integrating text and diagrams reduces cognitive load and facilitates learning. In studies by John Sweller and his associates, learners had difficulty following worked examples whose diagrams were separated from their formulas, while learners using integrated diagrams processed the information better and significantly improved their performance. The practical lesson is to place related information together, for example by building the explanatory text into the diagram, so that learners are not forced to hunt between separate sources.
Sources
1. Split attention effect (Wikipedia)
WikipediaOpening paragraph, first two sentences
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.
Lead paragraph, education-level
The split-attention effect is a learning effect inherent within some poorly designed instructional materials.
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