Cognitive Load Theory (CLT) is a framework that provides educational and instructional designers with a model for understanding the cognitive processes involved in learning.
Developed by John Sweller in the 1980s, the theory is based on the premise that our working memory has a limited capacity and that instructional methods should be designed to reduce cognitive load to optimize learning.
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Definitions
- Cognitive Load refers to the total mental effort used in the working memory.
- Intrinsic Load: This is the inherent difficulty associated with a specific instructional topic.
- Extraneous Load: This load is unnecessary for learning and can be altered by instructional design.
- Germane Load: This is the load devoted to processing, constructing, and automating schemas.
10 Characteristics of Cognitive Load Theory
- Limited Working Memory: CLT is based on the premise that the capacity of our working memory is limited and can handle only a certain amount of information at a time.
- Schemas: CLT suggests that knowledge is organized into schemas, mental constructs that allow us to categorize information for easier understanding and recall.
- Intrinsic, Extraneous, and Germane Load: CLT differentiates between three types of cognitive load – intrinsic, extraneous, and germane.
- Reduction of Extraneous Load: The theory emphasizes the importance of reducing extraneous cognitive load to enhance learning.
- Management of Intrinsic Load: CLT suggests that intrinsic load can be managed but not changed, as it is inherent to the learned material.
- Enhancement of Germane Load: The theory encourages the enhancement of germane load, which is beneficial for learning.
- Split-Attention Effect: CLT explains phenomena like the split-attention effect, where learning is hindered when the learner must split their attention and motivation between multiple sources of information.
- Redundancy Effect: The theory also explains the redundancy effect, where learning is hindered when the same information is presented in multiple forms.
- Worked Examples: CLT promotes using worked examples in instruction to reduce cognitive load.
- Modality Effect: The theory explains the modality effect, which occurs when learning is enhanced when both visual and auditory channels are used.
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5 Features and Benefits of Knowing About Cognitive Load Theory
- Effective Instructional Design: Understanding CLT can help educators and instructional designers create more effective learning materials by reducing extraneous and managing intrinsic load.
- Enhanced Learning: By reducing cognitive load, learners can process and understand information more effectively, leading to improved learning outcomes.
- Efficient Use of Resources: CLT optimizes working memory, allowing for more efficient use of cognitive resources.
- Improved Retention and Transfer: CLT can help improve information retention and transfer by promoting the construction and automation of schemas.
- Understanding Learning Difficulties: CLT can provide insights into why learners may struggle with specific topics or materials by identifying potential sources of cognitive overload.
Implementation Areas of Cognitive Load Theory
CLT can be applied in various areas, such as education, training, user interface design, and health care. It can guide the design of instructional materials, multimedia presentations, software interfaces, and medical procedures.
7 Examples of Cognitive Load Theory in the Workplace
- Training Programs: CLT can guide the design of training programs to ensure that they do not overload employees’ cognitive resources by breaking complex tasks into manageable chunks.
- Presentations: CLT can help avoid cognitive overload by minimizing text and visuals when presenting information.
- Software Design: In software design, CLT can guide the creation of user-friendly interfaces that minimize extraneous cognitive load.
- Task Prioritization: CLT can help employees prioritize tasks to manage their cognitive resources effectively.
- Workplace Learning: CLT can inform the design of workplace learning initiatives by incorporating strategies such as work examples and problem-solving exercises.
- Decision Making: Understanding CLT can help managers consider their employees’ cognitive load.
- Communication: CLT can guide effective communication in the workplace by helping to ensure that messages are clear and concise, reducing the cognitive load required to understand them.
Conclusion
Cognitive Load Theory is a powerful tool for understanding the mental processes involved in learning.
It considers the limitations of our working memory and provides a framework for designing effective instructional materials and optimizing learning outcomes. We hear this from customers who regularly use our corporate, employee, and leadership courses.
Understanding and applying CLT can lead to more efficient and effective learning and performance in the classroom or the workplace.
With 30+ years of training experience, I founded Oak Innovation (oakinnovation.com) in 1995. I help busy training professionals and business managers deliver better training courses in less time by giving them instant access to editable training course material. I received my Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from University College Cork. I hold qualifications in Professional Development And Training from University College Galway. Clients include Apple, Time Warner, and Harvard University.
