In recent years, educational videos have become a cornerstone of online learning. Whether you are brushing up on science concepts or diving into a new skill, videos are an accessible and engaging way to absorb information. But not all learners interact with videos in the same way. Some people breeze through them, while others struggle to stay focused. So how can educators make these videos more effective for everyone? A 2023 study from The Open University explores one promising solution: embedding questions directly into videos. This research sheds light on how interactive elements – like embedded questions – can boost engagement and enjoyment across different ages and genders. Let’s break down what the study found and why it matters for anyone involved in creating or consuming educational content.
Researchers recruited 158 participants aged 18–74, who were part of The Open University’s Curriculum Design Study Panel (CDSP). After excluding incomplete responses, data from 114 participants were analyzed. Each participant watched three short videos about topics like blindness, malaria, and first responders. These videos included questions either during playback or after the video ended. Participants experienced both types of question placements but saw the same set of questions regardless of timing.
Afterwards, participants completed surveys about their experiences – including whether they enjoyed answering questions during or after the video – if they felt it helped their understanding, and how quickly they responded to the questions. By comparing performance and preferences across age groups and genders, the researchers uncovered some fascinating insights.
One key finding was that participants answered questions faster when they appeared during the video rather than afterward. This suggests that embedded questions help keep viewers mentally engaged as they watch. Instead of having to recall details later, learners process information in real-time, which makes cognition more efficient. Think of it like taking notes during a lecture versus trying to remember everything once it's over – it is just easier to stay on track when you are prompted along the way.
However, there wasn’t a significant difference in the number of correct answers between the two formats. In other words, embedding questions didn’t necessarily improve accuracy, but it did streamline the process of answering.
Age turned out to be another critical factor. Younger adults (ages 25–34) were particularly enthusiastic about questions embedded during videos. They felt it enhanced their learning experience and kept them engaged. However, this enthusiasm waned slightly among older age groups. For example, individuals aged 65–74 actually preferred answering questions after the video had finished.
Why does this shift happen? One possibility is that younger learners are often more accustomed to multitasking and interacting with technology in dynamic ways. Meanwhile, older learners may find interruptions during a video distracting or overwhelming. Additionally, older participants showed no difference in response speed between the two question formats, suggesting that their cognitive processing might adapt differently to interruptions.
Interestingly, gender played a role in how much participants enjoyed the experience. Female participants reported liking questions embedded during videos more than male participants. They also felt that answering questions during the video improved their understanding of the material. On the flip side, males and females didn’t differ significantly in their overall preference for where questions should appear. This highlights the importance of considering diverse perspectives when designing educational tools.
Despite these variations, the study revealed widespread positivity toward interactive videos overall. Regardless of age or gender, most participants appreciated the interactivity provided by embedded questions. This shows that adding interactive features can enhance the appeal of educational videos for virtually any audience.
These findings have important implications for educators, instructional designers, and content creators. Here’s why:
Not all students learn the same way, so personalization is key. For instance, younger learners might thrive with frequent prompts throughout an interactive video, while older learners might benefit from reviewing the entire video before tackling questions. By tailoring the placement of questions based on the target audience, educators can create a more inclusive and effective learning environment.
Interactive elements like embedded questions can combat the passivity often associated with watching videos. When learners actively participate – even in small ways – they are more likely to stay focused and retain information. This is especially valuable in online distance education, where distractions abound.
As classrooms and workplaces become increasingly multigenerational, understanding how different age groups engage with technology is crucial. This study provides actionable insights into designing content that works well for everyone – from tech-savvy millennials to seasoned professionals.
If you’re creating educational videos, here are some takeaways from the study:
The findings from this study align perfectly with the mission of Kwizie, an AI-powered gamified quiz maker – designed to make learning more interactive, engaging, and personalized. By embedding quizzes directly into videos or other learning materials, Kwizie transforms passive viewing into active participation – just as the study suggests is most effective.
With Kwizie’s AI quiz generator, educators can seamlessly integrate questions at key moments in a video, which ensures that learners stay focused and process information in real-time. It also allows for quiz customization based on audience needs. Plus, Kwizie’s analytics provide valuable insights into learner behavior, which helps you refine your approach and maximize engagement.
Best of all, Kwizie’s gamification features add an element of fun to the learning process. From leaderboards to certificates and prizes, these tools tap into the motivational power of play, thereby making education not just informative but enjoyable too.
If you are looking to create videos that captivate and educate, why not put these research-backed strategies into action with Kwizie? Whether you are an educator, corporate trainer, or content creator, Kwizie’s AI quiz generator for students empowers you to design interactive experiences that cater to diverse audiences.
Try Kwizie today and see how easy it is to turn any video into an engaging, interactive learning journey!
