Study shows how watching video at double speed reworks brain
The digital age is moving at a rapid pace, with participants constantly seeking new ways to consume content. One popular trend that has emerged is speed-watching, particularly for online videos on platforms like TikTok and YouTube. Speed-watching allows viewers to consume information in half the time or more compared to watching videos at regular speed.
While speed-watching may seem like an efficient way to absorb content, researchers are now exploring its potential impact on the brain. A recent study conducted by an international team of researchers analyzed 24 studies that involved participants listening to videos at different speeds – normal speed, 1.25 times, two times, and 2.5 times the normal speed.
The results of the study showed that while there was not much difference in memory retention at 1.25 times the normal speed, retention took a hit at speeds of two times and beyond. Marcus Pearce, a cognitive science researcher at Queen Mary University of London, explained that incoming information is temporarily stored in working memory, which can only process a certain amount of information at a time. Cognitive overload from too much information can lead to a loss of information.
The study recommended sticking to speeds of 1.25 or 1.5 times, especially for complex or unfamiliar content. The findings were published in the journal Educational Psychology Review and highlighted that speed-watching affects individuals of all age ranges, not just children. Older adults, in particular, were more impacted by faster speeds, with a 31% drop in understanding at 1.5 times compared to younger adults who maintained over 90% comprehension at two times speed.
It is important to consider the potential impact of speed-watching on cognitive processes and memory retention, especially for older adults. By being mindful of the speed at which we consume content, we can ensure that we are effectively retaining and processing information.
