The concept of 'cognitive load' refers to the total amount of mental effort being used in the working memory. In educational settings, instructional design often aims 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, germane load, which involves the construction of schemas, is considered beneficial. Recent studies suggest that reducing extraneous load, such as by eliminating redundant information, can free up mental resources for deeper processing. Yet, some researchers argue that a certain level of desirable difficulty, which increases cognitive load, can enhance long-term retention. Thus, the relationship between cognitive load and learning outcomes is not linear but context-dependent.
❓ 지문에 따르면, 인지 부하가 학습에 유익한지 해로운지를 결정하는 주요 요인은 무엇인가?
A. 학습되는 자료의 유형
B. 작업 기억에서 사용되는 정신적 노력의 양
C. 컨텍스트와 부하가 관리되는 방식
D. 바람직한 어려움의 존재
✅ 正确答案
The context and how the load is managed
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