Active learning strategies in video learning: A meta-analysis

Active learning strategies embedded in video content have become increasingly prominent tools for enhancing learners' educational experiences. However, the literature offers varied results concerning their effectiveness. In this research, we conducted a series of meta-analyses to assess the influence of active learning strategies on learners' motivation, cognitive load, and learning performance. On the basis of our criteria, 46 articles were included, encompassing 54 studies comparing active strategies with passive video watching. Most of these studies (74 %) were conducted between 2019 and 2025 and focused primarily on adults (93 %) and STEM disciplines (75 %), with embedded questions being the most common strategy (46 %). The meta-analysis results revealed that active learning strategies had a significant positive effect on learning performance, including retention (k = 24, g = 0.33), comprehension (k = 33, g = 0.28) and transfer (k = 24, g = 0.43), and increased motivation (k = 8, g = 0.15) and cognitive load (k = 19, g = 0.19). Additionally, our moderator analysis revealed that learners’ characteristics (i.e., age) and video attributes (i.e., pace, setting) significantly influenced the outcomes associated with active learning strategies. This research, grounded in various theoretical frameworks, highlights the potential of active learning strategies to increase the efficiency and quality of video-based education.