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 (complexity of the material) and extraneous load (how the material is presented) exceed the learner's working memory capacity. However, recent studies suggest that a moderate level of germane load, which involves the mental resources devoted to processing and understanding the material, is beneficial. This has led to a shift from purely reducing cognitive load to strategically balancing it, especially in multimedia learning environments where visual and auditory information compete for attention.
❓ According to the passage, what is the main shift in the approach to cognitive load in education?
A. A. From focusing on reducing cognitive load to strategically balancing different types of load.
B. B. From ignoring cognitive load to completely eliminating it in multimedia learning.
C. C. From increasing germane load to decreasing intrinsic load in all subjects.
D. D. From using only visual aids to relying solely on auditory information.
✅ 正确答案
A. From focusing on reducing cognitive load to strategically balancing different types of load.
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