How do you apply the split-attention principle to avoid cognitive overload in your learners?

It's important to note that simultaneous use of audio and visuals can enhance comprehension. Many of us have experienced how certain visuals aid in processing verbally shared information. This happens because working memory has partially independent processors for handling visual and auditory material, and it can be improved by presenting material in a mixed mode. Visuals also contribute to building a mental model for processing information. The issue lies not in using multiple sources of information but in information that requires splitting attention. For instance, when presenting text in a presentation, learners' attention is divided between reading and listening to the presenter.

Spatial Contiguity: Example: In a training module about the parts of a cell, place labels directly next to each part in an interactive diagram. This spatial arrangement allows learners to easily connect the visual representation with the corresponding labels. Temporal Contiguity: Example: When explaining a historical timeline, display relevant images, dates, and descriptions simultaneously. This helps learners associate the events with their respective time periods in a cohesive manner. Integrate information instead of separating it: Instead of presenting separate text and image versions of the same information, consider combining them into an infographic or annotated image.

I have had this issue before not on my learners, but on myself. I tend to notice that if a picture and words are far apart, I find it hard to focus. Ever since then I have started integrating the words and pictures together. Most of the time, unless the sentences or words are really important, I won't add them physically to the presentation, only verbally or on my notes. This way the presentation is less cluttered and less minds wandering!

Le principe de l’attention partagée consiste à éviter la fragmentation des informations en les intégrant de manière cohérente. Cela implique, par exemple, de combiner des diagrammes avec des annotations textuelles directement dessus plutôt que de les séparer, afin de faciliter l’assimilation des relations entre les éléments présentés.

To apply the split-attention principle and avoid cognitive overload, I ensure that related information is presented together, reducing the need for learners to split their focus between multiple sources. For instance, I integrate text explanations directly with visuals rather than separating them. Additionally, I break down complex information into smaller, manageable chunks and use clear, concise instructions to keep learners focused and reduce unnecessary cognitive load.

Ce principe est crucial car il réduit la charge cognitive inutile et permet aux apprenants de se concentrer sur des activités pertinentes. En minimisant l’effort nécessaire pour relier plusieurs sources d’information, il optimise l’utilisation de la mémoire de travail, augmentant ainsi la compréhension et la rétention des contenus.

In my experience questioning the learners can help to keep the attention and identify the time when an adjust is needed for example an activity outdoors helps to reactivate the attention.

Analyser le matériel : Identifier les éléments potentiellement source de surcharge cognitive (diagrammes, textes, etc.). Intégration visuelle : Utiliser des étiquettes, des couleurs, des flèches ou des symboles pour relier textes et graphiques. Dynamisation : Préférer des vidéos ou des animations pour représenter des concepts dynamiques. Contextualisation : Inclure des exemples pratiques pour illustrer les concepts. Validation : Poser des questions ou proposer des exercices pour vérifier la compréhension et corriger d’éventuelles erreurs.

Interaction active : Impliquer les apprenants avec des outils interactifs (quiz en ligne, glisser-déposer, etc.) qui renforcent les connexions entre les contenus. Retour d’expérience : Solliciter les retours des apprenants sur la clarté du matériel pour ajuster les supports si nécessaire. Simplicité visuelle : Limiter les distractions dans les présentations pour garder l’attention sur les informations essentielles.