Watching lecture videos is now a major part of many students’ uni experience. Some say they prefer them to live lectures, as they can choose when to study. Many students also take advantage of the fact that video playback can be sped up, so cutting the amount of time they spend on lectures.

But what impact does sped-up viewing have on learning? The answer, according to Applied Cognitive Psychology, is, within some limits, none.

In fact, if used strategically, it can actually improve learning. However, what students think is going to be the best strategy isn’t actually what’s most beneficial.

The researchers do also add a few caveats. While 2x viewing was fine for learning about the material in their studies — real estate appraisals and the Roman Empire — perhaps it might not work for more complex subject matter;only more research will tell.

But as so many students do report wat...