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 Sweller's cognitive load theory, learning is hindered when the intrinsic load (complexity of the material) and extraneous load (how the material is presented) exceed the learner's capacity. However, recent research suggests that a moderate level of germane load, which involves the mental resources dedicated to processing and understanding new information, can actually enhance deep learning. This is because it encourages the learner to actively engage with the content, forming schemas that facilitate long-term retention. Thus, rather than merely minimizing all cognitive load, educators should strive to reduce extraneous load while maintaining sufficient intrinsic and germane load to challenge learners appropriately.
❓ 根据文章所述，教育者在设计教学材料时的首要目标是什么？
A. A) 消除所有形式的认知负荷，使学习变得毫不费力。
B. B) 在保持足够的固有负荷和相关负荷以促进有效学习的同时，减少无关负荷。
C. C) 尽可能增加认知负荷，以挑战学习者。
D. D) 只关注材料的复杂性，而不考虑呈现方式。
✅ 正确答案
B) To reduce extraneous load while preserving adequate intrinsic and germane load for effective learning.