EngageMe: Enhancing Academic Performance While Watching Video Learning Objects Using Visual Modifications

Keeping learners engaged and improving academic performance are essential challenges in online educational environments. Since Video Learning Objects (VLOs) are being widely utilized, engaging learners, especially during the initial moments of viewing, is an essential factor in their effectiveness.This study investigates the impact of various audiovisual modifications on learners’ attention and academic performance, mainly focusing on the first 20 seconds of educational videos. The goal is to determine which modifications most effectively capture and sustain attention to improve learning outcomes.The experiment consisted of four video blocks, the first of which was an unmodified baseline video. The following three blocks were subject to changes in screen brightness, background color, and white noise. Academic performance was assessed through multiple-choice questions designed to measure comprehension and retention, focusing on the initial 20 seconds of each video.The study found that all three modifications positively influenced attention and academic performance compared to the baseline. Among the modifications, color changes were the most effective, significantly increasing attention during the first 20 seconds of the video. Although still more effective than the baseline, white noise and brightness changes had a less pronounced impact.The findings suggest that strategic audiovisual modifications can enhance the effectiveness of VLOs by improving learner attention and academic performance. In particular, color change is proposed as a powerful tool for capturing early attention.