Comparing cognitive load during video versus traditional classroom instruction based on heart rate variability measures

This pilot study used heart rate variability (HRV) as an indicator of cognitive load to examine student engagement in the learning process. We investigated the dynamics of students' (N = 45, paired sample) cognitive load in classes with and without video tutorials and compared differences in cognitive load between development phases of lessons where students are acquiring new knowledge. The results of the study show that the average cognitive load of students is higher when using video tutorials than in classrooms without them. From the students' behavior, we can see that when using video tutorials, students frequently adjust their viewing strategies or take notes. In classrooms without videos, students are more easily distracted. This means that students mobilized more cognitive resources for effective learning while using video tutorials. In general, our results suggest that the use of video tutorials in the development phase of classroom can increase student effectiveness in learning new knowledge. This study provides new insights into the application of video tutorials as a form of computer-assisted instruction, highlighting the potential benefits of using dynamic cognitive load monitoring in real classroom environments. • Are students truly engaged in learning while watching videos? • Using heart rate variability to observe and draw dynamic cognitive load in students during class. • Cognitive load differences between traditional classrooms and video-based classrooms during new knowledge acquisition. • Video tutorials can engage more cognitive resources from students.