One Model or Six Models in Video Presentations When Viewing Alone and in Pairs?

The current study examined the interaction effect of the number of models in videos and viewing type on the acquisition of a Tabata skill, a four-minute high-intensity interval training. We randomly recruited 316 Chinese undergraduate students (162 females and 154 males). They viewed either one model presentation or six models presentation under one viewing type (viewing alone vs. viewing in pairs). We found that for learners who viewed alone, those learning from the video with six models perceived higher levels of social presence, parasocial interaction, social partnership with models, motivation, learning satisfaction, and attention than those learning from the video with one model. The findings have some implications for the design of video presentations to teach motor skills: teachers are encouraged to design effective video presentations via presenting models and create co-viewing learning contexts to enhance learning experience and outcomes.