The Effects of Selective and Divided Attention on Visual Perception among College Students in Lipa City

Selective and divided attention have significant impacts on visual perception. Several studies have explored how these attention types influence visual processing. However, more extensive research is needed to explore how environmental factors, like stimulus difficulty, impact selective and divided attention in educational settings. Thus, this study aimed to investigate the effects of attention on the visual perception of college students using single-factor experimental approach involving 60 participants. Results indicated that visual perception was higher under selective attention (Mn = 24.7; SD = 4.71) than divided attention (Mn = 21.7; SD = 4.79), with a mean difference of 3.76 points. Moreover, there is a very significant difference between the experimental and the control group, with a p-value of 0.002. The analysis yielded a Cohen’s d of 0.863, indicating that both selective and divided attention have a large effect size on student’s visual perception. Therefore, researchers recommend creating quiet study spaces to minimize distractions within the institution. Teachers could use visual aids and educate the students about the possible consequences of multitasking. Students can improve visual perception by highlighting key information, color-coding materials, and practicing visual exercises like board games and puzzles. Further studies could examine attention effects across different age groups and genders.