The concept of 'cognitive load' refers to the total amount of mental effort being used in the working memory. In educational psychology, it is often divided into three types: intrinsic, extraneous, and germane. Intrinsic load is associated with the complexity of the material itself, which cannot be altered without changing the content. Extraneous load is generated by the way information is presented, such as confusing diagrams or unnecessary instructions, and can be reduced by better instructional design. Germane load, on the other hand, is the effort devoted to processing and understanding the material, which is beneficial for learning. Research suggests that instructional designers should aim to minimize extraneous load while optimizing germane load, especially when dealing with complex subjects. However, over-simplifying content may inadvertently reduce intrinsic load, which could hinder deep learning.
❓ Según el pasaje, ¿cuál es el objetivo principal de los diseñadores instruccionales al gestionar la carga cognitiva?
A. A) Eliminar todos los tipos de carga cognitiva para hacer que el aprendizaje sea sin esfuerzo
B. B) Para reducir la carga extrínseca y aumentar la carga pertinente para un mejor aprendizaje.
C. C) Para aumentar la carga intrínseca haciendo el contenido más complejo
D. D) Centrarse únicamente en la presentación del material, ignorando la complejidad del contenido.
✅ 正确答案
B) To reduce extraneous load and enhance germane load for better 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