Learning quantum properties with informationally redundant external representations: An eye-tracking study

Recent research indicates that the use of Multiple External Representations (MERs) has the potential to support learning, especially in complex scientific areas, such as quantum physics. In particular, the provision of informationally redundant external representations can have advantageous effects on learning outcomes. This is of special relevance for quantum education, where various external representations are available, and their effective use is recognized as crucial to student learning. However, research on the effects of informationally redundant external representations in quantum learning is limited. The present study aims to contribute to the development of effective learning materials by investigating the effects of informationally redundant external representations on students’ learning of quantum physics. Using a between-subjects design, 113 students were randomly assigned to one of four conditions. The control group learnt with a traditional multimedia learning unit on the behavior of a single photon in a Mach-Zehnder interferometer. The three intervention groups received redundant essential information in the Dirac formalism, the Bloch sphere, or both. The use of eye tracking enabled insight into the learning process, depending on the external representations provided. While the results indicate no effect of the study condition on learning outcomes (content knowledge and cognitive load), the analysis of visual behavior reveals decreased learning efficiency with the addition of the Bloch sphere to the multimedia learning unit. The results are discussed based on current insights into learning with MERs. The study emphasizes the need for careful instructional design to balance the associated cognitive load when learning with informationally redundant external representations.