Cognitive Load Theory
Definition
Cognitive Load Theory
The idea that working memory has limited capacity, and learning is more effective when unnecessary demands are reduced.
- CLT is based on the proposition that our knowledge is split into:
- Primary knowledge, which is biologically predisposed.
- Secondary knowledge, which is cultural and used for teaching.
Key Ideas
Working Memory Limitations
- Working memory can only hold a few items at a time (typically around 7 ± 2).
- When overloaded, learning becomes inefficient.
Types of Cognitive Load
- Intrinsic Load: The complexity of the material itself.
- Extraneous Load: Unnecessary demands (e.g., irrelevant information).
- Germane Load: Effort devoted to processing and understanding the material.
Example
- Cluttered PowerPoint Slide: A slide with too much text, images, and animations can overwhelm students, making it hard to focus on the main idea.
- Clear Diagram: A simple diagram highlighting key points supports memory retention by reducing unnecessary distractions.
Applications
- Education: Teachers use clear visuals and step-by-step instructions to help students focus on essential information.
- Training: Breaking down complex tasks into smaller steps improves learning and retention.
- Interface Design: User-friendly designs with minimal distractions enhance usability and efficiency.
Critical Thinking
- Why It Matters: Recognizing that more information isn't always better helps educators and designers create more effective learning environments.
- Link to Exam Performance: Students who study with clear, focused materials often perform better than those who try to learn from overly complex resources.
Case study
- A study by Sweller et al. (2011) found that students who learned from simplified diagrams performed better on tests than those who studied detailed, cluttered diagrams.
- This supports the idea that reducing extraneous load enhances learning.
Analogy
- Imagine trying to carry a heavy backpack filled with unnecessary items.
- By removing the excess weight, you can move more efficiently.
- Similarly, reducing extraneous cognitive load helps your brain focus on what matters most.
Self review
- How can you apply Cognitive Load Theory to your own study habits? Think about ways to simplify your notes and focus on key concepts.
