The Role of Colour in Information Retention Among Undergraduate Students in Ghana:

Francis Kofi Nimo Nunoo; Eric Anane-Antwi; Michael Ato Essuman; Adolph  Agbo; Harry Barton  Essel; Ismail Moro

Francis Kofi Nimo Nunoo Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1663-0798
Eric Anane-Antwi Department of Publishing Studies, KNUST
Michael Ato Essuman Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi-Ghana https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3309-9161
Adolph Agbo Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi-Ghana
Harry Barton Essel Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi-Ghana https://orcid.org/0000-0001-7232-3640
Ismail Moro Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi-Ghana https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7643-1152

Keywords: Colour,, Information retention,, Learning outcomes,, Instructional design,, education

Abstract

The findings of this study provide actionable insights for instructional design, particularly in leveraging colour to enhance educational outcomes across diverse learner profiles. This research investigated the influence of colour on information retention among undergraduate students in Ghana. Through a cross-sectional survey of 153 undergraduate students from two public universities, the study examined students’ perceptions of colour in learning materials, its benefits and limitations, instructor utilisation, and individual differences in colour preferences. The results revealed that 70.6% of students considered colour important or extremely important for information retention, with 40% actively employing colour-coding strategies in their studies. While a majority (50.3%) preferred coloured materials for their engaging and visually stimulating qualities, 29.4% favoured black-and-white materials, highlighting individual differences in learning preferences. Qualitative data indicated that students found colour beneficial for improving engagement, attention, and memory recall, particularly in diagrams and graphs. However, some cautioned against excessive use, citing potential distractions. The study also revealed varying preferences between digital and print formats, considering different learning styles. These findings align with established theories such as Dual Coding and Cognitive Load Theory while extending understanding through the lens of individual preferences and contextual factors. The results suggest that strategic integration of colour in educational materials should be tailored to specific learning contexts, objectives, and individual learner needs.

Author Biographies

Francis Kofi Nimo Nunoo, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology

Francis Kofi Nimo Nunoo is a senior lecturer and publication designer specialising in book layout and typesetting. He has collaborated with both local and international publishers and focuses on the intersection of design and publishing. His research interests encompass reading analytics, print production, and the application of technology in education. He is dedicated to functional aesthetics in publication design and to mentoring future professionals.

Eric Anane-Antwi, Department of Publishing Studies, KNUST

Lecturer in the Department of Publishing Studies, KNUST

Michael Ato Essuman, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi-Ghana

Michael Ato Essuman (PhD) is a senior member (Lecturer) at the Department of Publishing Studies, KNUST. He holds a BA in Publishing Studies, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, and a PhD in Art Education with specialisation in Textbook Development and Evaluation with teaching experience in Higher Education. Currently, He is the industrial internship coordinator in the Department. His research focuses on Textbook development, Curriculum review, Education, Art and Design, Pre-press, Industry academic collaboration and Digital Humanities.

Adolph Agbo, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi-Ghana

Adolph Hilary Agbo is a lecturer in the Department of Publishing Studies, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana. He holds an MA in Art Education and a BA (Publishing Studies) from Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana. His research interests include writing, book design, print and production, print finishing, children’s education, Ghanaian Art and Culture.

Harry Barton Essel, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi-Ghana

Prof. Harry Barton Essel is an Associate Professor in the Department of Educational Innovations in Science and Technology at KNUST, Ghana. His interdisciplinary work encompasses art design, educational technology, and publishing studies. He earned a PhD in Art Education, with a research focus on digital submission systems and educational innovation. His research interests include AI chatbots in education, machine learning in learning analytics, educational data science, and digital literacy. Prof. Essel serves as the Principal Investigator for the UNIHUBS Project Ghana and has led multiple academic initiatives aimed at enhancing digital skills and integrating technology into education.

Ismail Moro, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi-Ghana

Dr. Ismaila Moro is a lecturer in the Department of Communication Design at KNUST, specialising in interactive and packaging design. With a PhD in Art Education, His research focuses on design education, typography, and the use of technology in education. He has contributed to projects like the Open Educational Resources (OER) initiative and currently serves as Graduate Coordinator in his department.