How reading in single- and multiple-column types influence our cognitive load: an EEG study
ISSN: 0264-0473
Article publication date: 2 September 2019
Issue publication date: 6 September 2019
Abstract
Purpose
The impact of different screen-based typography styles on individuals’ cognitive processing of information has not been given much consideration in the literature, though such differences would imply different learning outcomes. This study aims to enrich the current understanding of the impact of reading in single- and multiple-column types on students’ cognitive processing.
Design/methodology/approach
An electroencephalogram (EEG) was used to record and analyze the brain signals of 27 students while reading from single- and multiple- column layouts.
Findings
The results showed a significant difference in students’ cognitive load when reading text from different types of columns. All students exerted less processing efforts when text was presented in two-column format, thus experiencing less cognitive load.
Originality/value
Using EEG, this study examined the neural consequences of reading in single- and multiple-column types on cognitive load during reading. The findings can be used to enrich the current instructional design practices on how different typographical formats facilitate learners’ cognitive performance.
Keywords
Citation
Al-Samarraie, H., Eldenfria, A., Zaqout, F. and Price, M.L. (2019), "How reading in single- and multiple-column types influence our cognitive load: an EEG study", The Electronic Library, Vol. 37 No. 4, pp. 593-606. https://doi.org/10.1108/EL-01-2019-0006
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2019, Emerald Publishing Limited