The concept of 'cognitive load' refers to the total amount of mental effort being used in the working memory. In educational settings, instructional design aims to manage this load to optimize learning. According to cognitive load theory, learning is hindered when the intrinsic complexity of the material, combined with the way it is presented, exceeds the learner's cognitive capacity. Extraneous cognitive load, which arises from poorly designed instruction, can be reduced by simplifying presentations, while germane load, which facilitates learning, should be encouraged. Research has shown that using worked examples and eliminating redundant information can significantly improve comprehension, especially for novices. However, as expertise grows, the effectiveness of such scaffolds diminishes, a phenomenon known as the 'expertise reversal effect.' Thus, adaptive instructional methods that tailor the level of guidance to the learner's proficiency are crucial for effective education.
❓ 文章によると、外的認知負荷を減らす主な理由は何ですか？
A. 材料の本質的な複雑性を高めるために。
B. 作業記憶の容量を解放し、より深い学習を可能にするため。
C. エキスパートラーナーに対するあらゆる形態の指導を排除すること。
D. 教育者にとって、インストラクショナルデザインをより挑戦的なものにすること。
✅ 正确答案
To free up working memory capacity for deeper 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