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.
❓ 지문에 따르면, 외부 인지 부하를 줄이는 주된 이유는 무엇인가?
A. 재료의 고유한 복잡성을 증가시키기 위해.
B. 더 깊은 학습을 위한 작업 기억 용량을 확보하기 위해.
C. 전문 학습자를 위한 모든 형태의 지도를 제거하기 위함.
D. 교육 설계를 교육자들에게 더 도전적으로 만들기 위해.
✅ 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