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

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Cognitive overload is a common challenge for training facilitators, especially when dealing with complex or technical topics. If your learners have to process too much information at once, they may lose focus, get confused, or forget important details. One way to avoid this problem is to apply the split-attention principle, which is based on cognitive load theory. In this article, you will learn what the split-attention principle is, why it matters, and how to use it in your training sessions.

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Shraddha Rawat

Founder @ Learning Designers Community | Learning Design & Strategy Specialist | AI for Learning Enthusiast
Rajesh Gopinath

Linkedin Top Voice Automotive Sales | Linkedin Top Voice Training Management | Automotive Expertise | Training…
Kassandra M. L.

Training & Leadership Development | Change Management | QA/QC | Project Management | Bilingual (English/Spanish Fluent)…

1 What is the split-attention principle?

The split-attention principle is a guideline for designing instructional materials that minimize the cognitive load on learners. It states that you should avoid presenting multiple sources of information that require learners to split their attention between them. For example, if you have a diagram and a text explanation, you should not place them separately on different parts of the screen or page. Instead, you should integrate them into a single coherent presentation, such as by adding labels or annotations to the diagram. This way, learners can focus on one source of information and understand the relationship between the elements more easily.

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Shraddha Rawat

Founder @ Learning Designers Community | Learning Design & Strategy Specialist | AI for Learning Enthusiast
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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.

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Rajesh Gopinath

Linkedin Top Voice Automotive Sales | Linkedin Top Voice Training Management | Automotive Expertise | Training Department Management || Customer Journey Mapping for Sales and Service | Accessory Sales Coaching |
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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.

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Kassandra M. L.

Training & Leadership Development | Change Management | QA/QC | Project Management | Bilingual (English/Spanish Fluent) |
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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!

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Khaled Sdiri (PMP)?

PMP Project Manager| Training Manager and Aviation Security Instructor | TRAINAIRPLUS Focal Point | Six Sigma Belt Certificate | Scrum Certified | Managing Trainings and Projects for Organizational Growth??
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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.

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2 Why does the split-attention principle matter?

The split-attention principle matters because it helps learners to process information more efficiently and effectively. According to cognitive load theory, learners have a limited working memory capacity that can only hold a few chunks of information at a time. When learners have to split their attention between multiple sources of information, they have to use more of their working memory to integrate them and make sense of them. This reduces the amount of working memory available for learning and understanding the content. By applying the split-attention principle, you can reduce the extraneous cognitive load that comes from poor instructional design and increase the germane cognitive load that comes from meaningful learning activities.

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3 How to apply the split-attention principle in your training sessions?

In order to apply the split-attention principle in your training sessions, you need to review your instructional materials and identify any potential sources of split attention, such as diagrams, graphs, tables, charts, maps, formulas, or equations. Then, you must decide how to integrate them into a single presentation that makes the relationship between the elements explicit. To help you do this, you can use labels, arrows, colors, or symbols to link the relevant parts of the diagram and its text explanation. Additionally, you can use audio narration or videos to show dynamic changes in the diagram instead of static images. Furthermore, examples or scenarios can be used to illustrate the application of the diagram or formula in a real-world context. Finally, feedback or questions can be utilized to check learners' understanding of the integrated presentation and correct any misconceptions. By following these tips, you can apply the split-attention principle in your training sessions and improve learners' comprehension and retention of the content. You can also increase their motivation and engagement by making the learning experience more coherent and relevant.

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4 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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

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1 What is the split-attention principle?

2 Why does the split-attention principle matter?

3 How to apply the split-attention principle in your training sessions?

4 Here’s what else to consider

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