Putting a negative spin on it: Using a fidget spinner can impair memory for a video lecture

• Published in: Applied cognitive psychology Vol. 34; no. 1; pp. 277 - 284
• Main Authors: Soares, Julia S., Storm, Benjamin C.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Bognor Regis Wiley 01.01.2020; Wiley Subscription Services, Inc
• Subjects: Attention; Between-subjects design; College Students; fidget spinner; fidgeting; Inhibition; Interference (Learning); Learning; Lecture Method; Memory; Object Manipulation; Observational learning; Popularity; Side effects; Student Attitudes; Video Technology
• ISSN: 0888-4080; 1099-0720
• DOI: 10.1002/acp.3610

Summary Fidget spinners have experienced a rapid rise in popularity, at least partially because they are marketed as attentional aides with the potential to enhance student learning. In the current study, college‐aged students watched educational videos while either using a fidget spinner or not. Us...