Effects of Concurrent Irrelevant Visual Stimuli on Learning Outcomes in Midwifery Education

This randomized controlled trial was designed to evaluate the effects of concurrent instructionally irrelevant visual stimuli on learning-related outcomes among third-year midwifery students. Participants were assigned to either a split-screen educational condition or a standard instructional condition. Both groups received the same 45-minute theoretical session on delivery-room management of the newborn. The intervention group was exposed to an unrelated soap-cutting video displayed concurrently with the educational presentation, whereas the control group received standard PowerPoint-supported instruction. The primary outcome was attitude toward learning. Secondary outcomes included theoretical knowledge, state anxiety, academic motivation, and satisfaction with the teaching method. Outcomes were assessed immediately after the educational session.