雅思阅读

📖 Reading Passage

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 enhance learning outcomes. 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 itself, while extraneous load is generated by the way information is presented. Germane load, however, is devoted to processing and understanding the material, which is beneficial for learning. Research suggests that reducing extraneous load, for instance by simplifying visual layouts or avoiding redundant information, can free up mental resources for germane load, thereby facilitating deeper comprehension. Nevertheless, over-simplification might reduce essential intrinsic load, potentially hindering the development of complex problem-solving skills.