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.
❓ 文章によると、インストラクショナルデザイナーが認知負荷を管理する際の主な目標は何ですか？
A. A) あらゆる種類の認知負荷を排除し、学習を努力なしで行えるようにするため
B. B) 余計な負荷を減らし、関連する負荷を高めて、より良い学習を実現するため。
C. C) コンテンツをより複雑にすることで内省的負荷を増加させること
D. D) 教材の提示のみに焦点を当て、内容の複雑さを無視すること
✅ 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