Positive and negative impact of technology on the learning process

4. Interactivity and gamification versus distraction and multitasking

Digital technologies provide a range of tools to encourage student engagement and motivation, from interactive quizzes and simulations to gamification elements such as points, badges and leaderboards. Such activities can enhance intrinsic motivation and a sense of competence and autonomy, and make learning more engaging.

On the other hand, the digital environment is full of distractions, notifications, open browser tabs and social networks, which often leads to multitasking (performing multiple tasks at the same time). Research shows that performing multiple tasks at the same time, especially while learning, reduces the efficiency of information processing and negatively affects long-term memory. Therefore, it is important to anticipate these risks in instructional design and clearly structure digital activities, and definitely plan some kind of digital breaks within the schedule.

Tools

Digital technologies offer a wide range of opportunities to foster student engagement and motivation, but their effectiveness depends on thoughtful pedagogical design. Higher education most often uses tools that enable active participation, reflection, and interaction within a digital environment.

Moodle, as the most widely used learning management system, allows the integration of various interactive activities. Using H5P interactive content, teachers can easily create knowledge tests, interactive video lessons, upload and post tasks, simulations and gamification elements. For example, an interactive video can contain comprehension questions, and students receive feedback immediately after answering. This encourages active monitoring of the video content and reflection on their own learning.

Besides H5P, other tools such as Kahoot!, Wayground, and Mentimeter which encourages a competitive and collaborative spirit with quick quizzes and live polls. For simulations and scenario-based learning, tools such as Labster or ThingLink, can be used , which provide visually rich and interactive representations of complex concepts, but be aware that some of these tools, unlike H5P and Moodle, do not have a Croatian interface translation.

When designing activities in a digital environment, it is recommended to apply the principles of active learning and cognitive load. Activities should have clear objectives, time limits and instructions that prevent excessive switching between tasks. A good practice has been to combine shorter micro-activities (e.g. a knowledge check after a video) with reflective tasks (e.g. a forum with a discussion question). Teachers can also plan digital breaks, such as short rest activities or changes in modality (discussion, practical task, joint synthesis) to maintain attention and reduce so-called multitasking.

Ultimately, the key to effective digital design is creating a balanced environment that simultaneously fosters student motivation and self-regulation, with clear structure, timely feedback, and a sense of progress.