The concept of 'cognitive load' refers to the total amount of mental effort being used in the working memory. In educational psychology, cognitive load theory suggests that learning is most effective when instructional materials are designed to minimize extraneous cognitive load, allowing learners to devote their full mental capacity to intrinsic and germane loads. Intrinsic load is inherent to the complexity of the material itself, while germane load involves the processes of schema construction and automation. Researchers argue that poorly designed multimedia presentations, which split attention between related sources of information, unnecessarily increase extraneous load, thereby hindering deep understanding. Conversely, well-structured materials that integrate text and visuals can reduce this unnecessary burden, facilitating more efficient learning. Thus, the theory has profound implications for curriculum design and the development of digital learning tools, emphasizing the need to align instructional methods with human cognitive architecture.
❓ According to the passage, what is the primary reason why poorly designed multimedia presentations hinder learning?
A. A. They increase intrinsic cognitive load by making material more complex.
B. B. They reduce germane load by preventing schema construction.
C. C. They add extraneous cognitive load by splitting attention between related sources.
D. D. They overload working memory with too much germane load.
✅ 正确答案
C. They add extraneous cognitive load by splitting attention between related sources.
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