The concept of 'cognitive load' refers to the total amount of mental effort being used in the working memory. In educational settings, instructional designers often aim to manage cognitive load to optimize learning. According to Sweller's cognitive load theory, learning is hindered when the intrinsic load (inherent complexity of the material) and extraneous load (how the material is presented) exceed the learner's capacity. However, recent studies suggest that a certain level of desirable difficulty, such as interleaving practice or introducing occasional distractions, can enhance long-term retention by promoting deeper processing. This nuanced view challenges the traditional assumption that all reductions in cognitive load are beneficial, implying that instructional strategies must balance clarity with productive challenge to foster durable learning.
❓ 近期研究对教学设计的主要启示是什么？
A. A. 减少认知负荷始终是提升学习效果的最佳途径。
B. B. 教学策略应旨在消除所有形式的困难。
C. C. 学习过程中的某些挑战能够提升长期记忆保持，因此需要寻求平衡。
D. D. 在所有学习情境中，内在负荷比外在负荷更为重要。
✅ 正确答案
C. Some challenges during learning can improve long-term retention, so balance is needed.