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.
❓ 지문에 따르면, 교육자들이 교수 자료를 설계할 때의 주요 목표는 무엇인가?
A. A) 모든 형태의 인지 부하를 제거하여 학습을 수월하게 만든다.
B. B) 효과적인 학습을 위해 적절한 내재적 부하와 본질적 부하를 유지하면서 외부 부하를 줄이기 위함.
C. C) 인지 부하를 최대한 증가시켜 학습자에게 도전 과제를 제공하기 위해.
D. D) 자료의 복잡성에만 초점을 맞추고 표현 방식을 고려하지 않는 것.
✅ 正确答案
B) To reduce extraneous load while preserving adequate intrinsic and germane load for effective 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