How to Use the Message Block to Capture Attention in E-Learning

How to Use the Message Block to Capture Attention in E-Learning

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Introduction

Learners’ attention is the fuel behind every successful online course. In a digital world full of distractions—notifications, social media, emails—maintaining engagement is a true challenge for instructional designers. A drop in attention can lead to loss of motivation, poor memory retention, and high dropout rates. According to a study, 65% of learners abandon a module if they don’t see an immediate benefit. To counter this risk, VTS Editor offers the Message Block: a customizable pop-up window that delivers essential information at just the right moment.

This detailed article is divided into three parts to walk you through step-by-step:

  • Why the Message Block boosts engagement
  • How to create powerful messages
  • How to strategically integrate it into your learning path

Part 1: Why the VTS Editor Message Block Boosts Engagement in E-Learning

Definition and Functionality of the Message Block

The Message Block generates a centered on-screen pop-up. Here are its main components:

  • Title (top banner): a colorable area to draw the eye.
  • Main text content: space for 1 to 4 concise paragraphs.
  • Optional image on the left: icon, simple diagram, illustration or contextual photo.
  • Sound or voice-over: audio notification or synthetic voice available in over 800 voices.
  • “Continue” button: customizable text (“Next”, “Got it”, “OK, let’s start”).

With just a few clicks, you set these elements using an intuitive interface. You can also specify a delay before displaying the message (to allow some observation time). A negative delay also lets you immediately trigger the next block.

Pedagogical Benefits of the Message Block

Improved Memory Retention

Key information isolated in a pop-up is more easily retained. The human brain is particularly responsive to visual contrasts. For example, a safety training module can display a pop-up message to highlight a hazard before a simulation.

Controlled Pacing

Each message creates a pause point, structuring the learning path. By placing a message after an overly dense sequence, you offer time for reflection. A cognitive study shows that a 5–7 second pause increases comprehension by 30%: see this scientific article.

Instructional Clarity

The pop-up format avoids cognitive overload by isolating the information from the rest of the screen. During complex exercises, a message like “Here’s how it works” avoids tedious re-reading of the scenario.

Multimodal Accessibility

Adding synthetic voices and sounds engages multiple sensory pathways. For instance, accompanying a text message with a “ding” sound enhances auditory memory, which is helpful for auditory learners.

Cognitive Principles Behind Capturing Attention

Novelty Effect

An unexpected pop-up window instantly draws the eye and stimulates short-term memory. Use it to introduce a surprise element or a challenge.

Cognitive Load Management

By isolating information, dispersion is avoided and mental processing becomes easier. The Message Block acts as a filter that highlights essential content.

Dual Coding Theory

Combining text, image, and sound multiplies the memory encoding pathways. For example, a diagram accompanied by a voice description enhances understanding of complex business processes. Learn more about this theory in this academic article.

Part 2: Creating Powerful Messages with the VTS Editor Message Block

Writing a Catchy and Concise Title

  • Favor clarity: 5 to 8 words max. If too long, the title loses impact.
  • Focus on the benefit: “Secure your access”, “Master this concept in 60 seconds”. For example, a GDPR module can begin with “Protect sensitive data”.
  • Spark curiosity: Open questions (“Ready for a challenge?”) or surprising statements (“What you don’t know about your rights”).

Structuring Content: Clarity and Readability

  • Use bullet points to make reading easier by listing 3 to 5 key ideas. For example:
    • Objective: learn how to detect phishing.
    • Steps: check sender, analyze the link, report.
    • Result: enhanced security.
  • Short sentences: 12 to 15 words max per sentence.
  • Adapted font and size: use at least 18 pt for body text with sufficient contrast (light on dark or the reverse). Avoid overly stylized fonts.

Adding Media to Increase Impact

  • Illustrative image: choose a simple image directly related to the message (padlock icon for security, light bulb for a tip). Avoid cluttered visuals.
  • Sound or synthetic voice: an audio notification draws attention as soon as the message pops up. Example: a short beep to signal an alert.
  • Custom voice-over: select a VTS Editor character to bring coherence to your narration. Imagine a virtual mentor punctuating your message!

Playing with Timing and Display Duration

  • Delays before opening: a positive delay (2–3s) gives the learner time to stabilize their gaze before the pop-up appears.
  • Pause after closing: a negative delay (-1s) can immediately trigger the next block — useful for fast transitions.
  • Display duration:
    • Manual: the learner clicks when ready—ideal for critical instructions.
    • Automatic: the message closes after a preset time (5–7s), suitable for quick reminders.