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.
❓ 지문에 따르면, 교수 설계자들이 인지 부하를 관리할 때의 주요 목표는 무엇인가?
A. A) 모든 유형의 인지 부하를 제거하여 학습을 수월하게 만들기 위해
B. B) 불필요한 인지 부하를 줄이고 본질적 인지 부하를 높여 더 나은 학습을 도모하기 위해
C. C) 콘텐츠를 더 복잡하게 만들어 내재적 부하를 증가시키기 위해
D. D) 자료의 표현에만 집중하고, 내용의 복잡성은 무시한다.
✅ 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