Cognitive Load Theory

Cognitive Load Theory, Instructional Design, and Learning

The Cognitive Load Theory, which suggests that the brain can only process a certain amount of information at a time, is beneficial in addressing the lack of scaffolding. By breaking down information into more manageable pieces or chunks, known as scaffolding, the cognitive load is reduced, allowing for the successful transfer of new knowledge from the working memory (short-term) to the brain's long-term memory for easier retrieval and application. 

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There are three types of cognitive load 

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• Intrinsic: Refers to the difficulty level of a new task or skill. 

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• Extraneous: Refers to anything that may distract the learner or any unnecessary information.

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• Germane: Refers to the "sweet spot" when the learner's brain processes can process the new material to make new connections from the presented information (learning).