Cognitive Load Theory: Understanding How We Learn
As humans, we have always tried to understand how we learn and process information. From the early days of education, teachers have been trying to find the best ways to teach their students and help them retain the knowledge they learn. One theory that has gained a lot of attention recently is the Cognitive Load Theory (CLT).
CLT is a theory of learning that explains how our brains process information and the limitations that our working memory has. It was first developed by John Sweller in the 1980s and has since been studied extensively by psychologists around the world.
The basic premise of CLT is that our working memory has a limited capacity. This means that we can only process a certain amount of information at one time. When we are asking our brain to process too much information, we experience what is known as cognitive overload. This can lead to a decrease in performance, and our ability to retain information is compromised.
To understand this theory better, it is helpful to understand the different types of cognitive load. There are three types of cognitive load: intrinsic, extraneous, and germane. Intrinsic cognitive load refers to the inherent complexity of a task. This means that some tasks are naturally more difficult than others and require more mental effort to process. Extraneous cognitive load refers to the unnecessary information or distractions that can hinder learning. Finally, germane cognitive load refers to the mental effort that is required to make meaning from the information being learned.
One way that CLT can be applied in the classroom is by reducing the extraneous cognitive load. This can be done by presenting information in a clear and concise manner, reducing unnecessary distractions, and breaking down complex tasks into smaller, more manageable chunks.
Another application of CLT is the use of worked examples. Worked examples are problems that have already been solved, and the process is shown step-by-step. By using worked examples, learners can reduce their intrinsic cognitive load, as they are not required to figure out how to solve the problem on their own. Instead, they can focus on understanding the solution and the underlying process.
One argument against CLT is that it oversimplifies learning and does not take into account the personal factors that can affect how individuals process information. For example, someone who has a lot of background knowledge in a specific area may be able to process more information than someone who has little to no previous knowledge.
Despite these criticisms, CLT remains a useful framework for understanding how we learn and how to optimize the learning experience. By reducing extraneous cognitive load and utilizing strategies such as worked examples, educators can help learners to make meaningful connections and retain the knowledge they learn.
In conclusion, the Cognitive Load Theory provides a valuable insight into how our brains process information, the limitations of our working memory, and how educators can utilize this knowledge to optimize the learning experience. By reducing extraneous cognitive load and using worked examples, learners can better understand complex concepts, make meaningful connections, and retain information. This theory continues to be studied and refined by psychologists around the world and is a valuable tool for improving our understanding of how we learn.