The concept of 'cognitive load' refers to the total amount of mental effort being used in the working memory. In educational settings, instructional designers often aim to manage cognitive load to optimize learning. According to cognitive load theory, learning is hampered when the working memory is overloaded with extraneous information that does not contribute to schema acquisition. However, intrinsic load, which is inherent to the complexity of the material, cannot be reduced without simplifying the content itself. Germane load, on the other hand, is the effort devoted to processing and understanding the material, which is beneficial for learning. Effective instructional design seeks to minimize extraneous load while promoting germane load, thereby facilitating the construction of mental schemas.
❓ According to the passage, what is the primary goal of managing cognitive load in instructional design?
A. To eliminate all types of cognitive load to make learning effortless
B. To reduce intrinsic load by simplifying the subject matter
C. To decrease extraneous load and increase germane load for better learning
D. To increase the total cognitive load to challenge advanced learners
✅ 正确答案
To decrease extraneous load and increase germane load for better learning
IELTS Reading Tips
Skim the questions first, underline keywords, then locate in the passage
Watch for paraphrasing; correct answers are often reworded
Be wary of absolute statements (all, always, never) — usually wrong
Pay attention to content after transition words (however, but, yet)
Manage time: about 20 minutes per passage; skip difficult questions first