Relationship between objective and subjective cognitive load measurements in multimedia learning

The aim of this study is to compare subjective and objective cognitive load measurements in a multimedia learning environment. For this purpose, 20 university students studied in multimedia environments designed by researchers during which eye movements and multichannel electroencephalography (EEG) signals were recorded. Self-report ratings were obtained at the end of the experiment, and retention performances of the students were measured. After the data were collected, Pearson Correlation analysis was applied. According to the results, significant relationship between the number of fixations and EEG frequency band powers was found. In addition, there was a negative relationship between retention performance and number of fixations. Moreover, a negative relationship was found between retention performance and self-reported measurements.