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 hampered when the working memory is overloaded with extraneous information that does not contribute to schema construction. This can occur when complex material is presented without clear structure or when redundant visuals accompany text. Conversely, intrinsic cognitive load, which is inherent to the difficulty of the subject matter itself, cannot be reduced but can be managed by breaking tasks into smaller steps. Germane cognitive load, on the other hand, is the effort devoted to processing and understanding the material, which should be encouraged. Effective instructional design seeks to minimize extraneous load while promoting germane load, thereby facilitating the transfer of information into long-term memory.
❓ According to the passage, what is the primary goal of effective instructional design in relation to cognitive load?
A. To eliminate all cognitive load during learning
B. To increase intrinsic load to challenge students
C. To reduce extraneous load and promote germane load
D. To focus solely on reducing working memory usage
✅ 正确答案
To reduce extraneous load and promote germane 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