The concept of 'cognitive load' refers to the total amount of mental effort being used in the working memory. In educational settings, instructional design often aims to manage cognitive load to optimize learning. According to Sweller's cognitive load theory, there are three types: intrinsic, extraneous, and germane. Intrinsic load is inherent to the complexity of the material, extraneous load is generated by the way information is presented, and germane load is devoted to processing and constructing schemas. Research suggests that reducing extraneous load, for instance by simplifying diagrams or eliminating redundant text, can free up mental resources for deeper learning. However, overly simplifying content may reduce germane load, hindering the development of robust mental models. Thus, effective instruction balances these loads, adapting to the learner's prior knowledge and task demands.
❓ Según el pasaje, ¿cuál es el principal desafío en el diseño instruccional en cuanto a la carga cognitiva?
A. A. Eliminar todos los tipos de carga cognitiva para hacer que el aprendizaje sea sin esfuerzo.
B. B. Aumentar la carga intrínseca para desafiar a los estudiantes avanzados.
C. C. Equilibrar diferentes tipos de carga cognitiva para promover un aprendizaje eficaz.
D. D. Centrarse únicamente en reducir la carga extrínseca sin considerar la complejidad del contenido.
✅ 正确答案
C. Balancing different types of cognitive load to promote effective learning.
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