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.
❓ 최근 연구가 교수 설계에 주는 주요 시사점은 무엇인가?
A. A. 인지 부하를 줄이는 것은 학습을 향상시키는 가장 좋은 방법이다.
B. B. 교수 전략은 모든 형태의 어려움을 제거하는 것을 목표로 해야 한다.
C. C. 학습 중 겪는 일부 어려움은 장기 기억 유지력을 향상시킬 수 있으므로, 균형이 필요하다.
D. D. 모든 학습 상황에서 내재적 부하가 외재적 부하보다 더 중요하다.
✅ 正确答案
C. Some challenges during learning can improve long-term retention, so balance is needed.
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