Eye Movement Modelling Examples as Cues to Guide Attention and Improve Learning in Short or Long Animations

ABSTRACT Background Both eye movement modelling examples (EMMEs) and cues guide attention and improve learning in multimedia learning environments. EMME can act as a special form of cue. However, no studies have directly examined whether EMME would be superior to visual cues. Objective The study was to investigate whether there were advantages of EMME over cues on visual attention, learning outcomes and subjective perception in a multimedia environment. Method In Experiment 1, 67 college students were randomly assigned to the EMME group, cue group and control group and learned from animations explaining the synaptic transmission. In Experiment 2, we replicated Experiment 1 using longer learning material. Seventy‐one college students were randomly assigned to three groups (EMME, cue and control) and learned from animations explaining the process of cell division. Results and Conclusions In Experiment 1, results indicated both EMMEs and cues guide attention and facilitate learning. Regarding learning outcomes and subjective perception, learners did not benefit more from EMMEs than cues. Eye movement indicators showed that EMMEs were better than cues. In Experiment 2, results were consistent with Experiment 1. Implications This study is the first to compare EMMEs and cues. We found that EMMEs and cues were equivalent in producing effects on learning outcomes and subjective perception. EMMEs were superior to cues in guiding attention and conveying strategies, as indicated by eye movements. Both theoretical and practical implications could be drawn.