Captivating Minds: Overcoming Short Attention Spans with Engaging Learning Strategies

By Aoife Donovan Lee, Head of Research and Innovation, Harvest

October 2024

Introduction

In today’s fast-paced, technology-driven world, it is becoming increasingly difficult for learners to maintain focus during both online and in-person training interventions. Although technology, such as digital devices, social media platforms and artificial intelligence (AI) tools makes learning so accessible, it is impossible to overlook its impact on our brain function and cognitive abilities (Shanmugasundaram & Tamilarasu, 2023).

Studies suggest that human attention spans are decreasing, with the average adult now finding it harder to focus for extended periods (American Psychological Association, 2023). Gen Z is experiencing the shortest attention spans on record, averaging just eight seconds – four seconds shorter than Millennials (Knowledge Anywhere, 2024). Some experts even predict that this figure will decline further in the near future.

However, other research argues that humans have a vast capacity for sustained attention, provided the right techniques are employed to unlock it (Forbes, 2024). This article explores the barriers to focus and how learning professionals can overcome them, with a particular focus on storytelling.

Attention

Attention begins to flag after ten to twenty minutes of non-stop concentration, particularly if the material is dense or repetitious (Springer Open, 2018). Long training sessions without breaks may cause individuals to experience cognitive overload, which is characterised by a depletion of mental resources that results in distracted behaviour, daydreaming, and a decreased ability to retain material (Mayo Clinic, 2022).

Another critical issue to address is the impact of the internet on our cognitive processes. The way we think, and process information has shifted due to the influence of the digital world, leading to more superficial and fragmented thought patterns (Shanmugasundaram & Tamilarasu, 2023). The widespread use of smartphones plays a major role in this change, with excessive smartphone usage linked to decreased attentional control, which negatively affects learning (De-Sola Gutiérrez, 2016). Studies indicate that individuals who frequently use smartphones tend to have shorter attention spans compared to those who use them less often (Lui and Wong, 2012).

The impact of this decreasing attention span is becoming more apparent in both the in-person and online training classroom. With the prevalence of laptops, smartphones, and notifications, digital distractions are omnipresent. Participants can mentally stray to emails, or other duties even when they are physically present in the room.

Multitasking is an even bigger temptation during virtual training sessions. A participant’s focus and involvement may suffer if they divide their attention between personal affairs and the training session.

Overcoming Attention Challenges: Tips for Learning Practitioners

To tackle the challenge of maintaining attention, learning professionals can implement a range of strategies, such as incorporating breaks, introducing variety, and using the power of storytelling.

Always alternat between content sharing, discussions, group exercises, and multimedia presentations. Good L&D providers will incorporate virtual platforms such as Menti for in-session feedback, Padlet for group work or, Kahoot for in-session games.

Tailored case studies or ‘mini’ case stories, based on specific organisational or team challenges are proven to create deep focus and immersion in the task at hand. Peers who work together on relevant problem-solving often experience a state of ‘flow’ with participants feeling a high sense of reward and motivation for their efforts. At Harvest, we also use A.I. to generate these real-life scenarios and challenges.

Finally, a 5-minute break every 45-60 minutes is recommended. This is sufficient time to reset mentally and return to the learning experience with renewed focus.

The Power of Stories to Capture Attention

Storytelling is also a powerful tool for capturing attention and making content more relatable. By weaving in narratives that evoke novelty, tension, and relatability, you can engage the brain’s emotional centres, keeping participants attentive for longer periods. Some of the most inspiring storytelling is found within an organisation with senior leaders or specialists sharing their own stories.

Caroline Shaw, a senior executive at a tech company, was always glued to her devices. Emails, meetings, and endless notifications filled her days. Her constant connectivity, left her feeling increasingly drained and less productive – sound familiar?

After attending a leadership retreat, where a speaker shared the benefits of taking breaks from digital devices, Caroline decided to give it a go. She began with a ten-minute break, once a day, without her phone or laptop. At first, it felt strange, but within a short space of time, she started to notice some positive changes. Her mind felt more clear, new ideas began to surface, and her stress levels dropped.

As she extended these breaks, her productivity soared, and she became a more focused leader. Over time, her team thrived with greater autonomy, and Caroline felt a renewed sense of balance in both her professional and personal life. Disconnecting from her devices gave her the clarity she had been missing.

Research studies suggest that what Caroline experienced is what many others who practice a ‘device detox’ experience. What made this information more compelling was that it was described to you in a story-telling style.

By using stories that resonate, you can not only capture your audience’s attention, but you can also build trust and rapport as well as simplify complex ideas using metaphors and analogies (LinkedIn, 2024). A compelling story captivates us by introducing novelty, drawing us in with the unexpected, and then reinforcing engagement with relatable elements.

The reason a gripping story holds our attention lies in its ability to stimulate the brain’s emotional centres. Novelty sparks emotions like surprise, happiness, and curiosity, while tension fuels anticipation and unease. Relatable content, on the other hand, ignites humour, nostalgia, and empathy, making the story more memorable and meaningful (Forbes, 2023).

By skilfully combining these elements – novelty, tension, and relatability – learning professionals can create narratives that not only capture attention but also extend it, keeping participants engaged for longer periods of time (Forbes, 2023).

Conclusion

In a world filled with distractions, capturing, and maintaining learners’ attention is a formidable challenge. Yet, through thoughtful design – such as using breaks, varying delivery methods, and tapping into the emotional power of storytelling – learning professionals can significantly improve focus and engagement in both digital and in-person environments. By embracing these strategies, trainers can unlock the vast potential for sustained attention, transforming the learning experience for today’s distracted participants.