Cognitive Load Theory (CLT)

 

Cognitive Load Theory (CLT) is a psychological framework developed by John Sweller in the late 1980s. It’s especially influential in instructional design, education, and learning sciences. The theory explains how the limitations of working memory affect learning, and it provides strategies to design instruction that aligns with how people process information.

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🧠 Core Idea:

Humans have limited working memory capacity, especially when dealing with new information. If instructional materials are too complex or poorly designed, they can overload the learner's cognitive system, impeding learning.

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📦 Types of Cognitive Load:

1. Intrinsic Load

   • Related to the complexity of the material itself.

   • Depends on the number of elements and their interactivity.

   • Example: Solving an algebra equation vs. simple addition.

2. Extraneous Load

   • Caused by poor instructional design.

   • Doesn’t contribute to learning and should be minimized.

   • Example: Distracting animations or unclear instructions.

3. Germane Load

   • Refers to the mental effort devoted to processing, constructing, and automating schemas (mental models).

   • It’s productive cognitive load and should be encouraged.

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🧰 Instructional Design Principles Based on CLT:

• Worked Examples: Show step-by-step solutions to reduce intrinsic and extraneous load.

• Split-Attention Effect: Integrate information sources (e.g., combine text and diagrams) to avoid splitting attention.

• Modality Effect: Use both visual and auditory channels (e.g., narration with visuals) to distribute cognitive load.

• Redundancy Effect: Eliminate redundant information that adds unnecessary cognitive burden.

• Segmenting: Break information into manageable chunks.

• Scaffolding: Support learners early on, then gradually remove support as expertise grows.

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📚 Application in Teaching (e.g., EFL Classrooms):

• Simplify texts based on learners' proficiency (manage intrinsic load).

• Avoid cluttered slides or irrelevant graphics (reduce extraneous load).

• Use concept mapping or summarizing tasks to support schema construction (enhance germane load).