The concept of 'cognitive load' refers to the amount of mental effort required to process information. In educational psychology, cognitive load theory suggests that learning is hindered when the total load exceeds the learner's working memory capacity. This is particularly relevant in multimedia learning, where learners must integrate visual and auditory information simultaneously. According to Mayer's cognitive theory of multimedia learning, effective instructional design should reduce extraneous load (irrelevant information) and manage intrinsic load (complexity inherent to the material), while fostering germane load (effort devoted to schema construction). Research has shown that presenting information in a segmented manner, rather than as a continuous stream, can significantly improve comprehension, especially for novice learners. However, experts may benefit from less scaffolding, as their prior knowledge allows them to handle higher intrinsic load without overload.
❓ According to the passage, what is the primary reason why segmented presentation of information enhances learning for novice learners?
A. It reduces the total cognitive load by simplifying the intrinsic complexity of the material.
B. It decreases extraneous load by allowing learners to process smaller chunks of information at a time.
C. It increases germane load by encouraging learners to memorize each segment separately.
D. It eliminates the need for prior knowledge, making the material accessible to all learners.
✅ 正确答案
It decreases extraneous load by allowing learners to process smaller chunks of information at a time.
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