According to research on active learning, how long should a formal lecture or video presentation last?

Research on active learning suggests that to maintain the attention and engagement of learners, formal lectures or video presentations should ideally be kept concise. No more than 10 minutes is recommended because cognitive overload can occur when learners are presented with information for extended periods without interaction or engagement. This brevity allows for the incorporation of active learning strategies, such as discussions, group work, or hands-on activities, which can enhance retention and understanding of the material.

Longer presentations tend to lead to decreased focus and the potential for significant portions of the material to become less memorable. Therefore, a duration of 10 minutes promotes optimal engagement while allowing for the integration of various instructional methods that support effective learning, reinforcing the idea that shorter, more interactive sessions are often more beneficial in educational contexts.