The concept of 'cognitive load' refers to the total amount of mental effort being used in the working memory. In educational psychology, cognitive load theory (CLT) suggests that learning is most effective when instructional designs align with human cognitive architecture. CLT distinguishes between intrinsic load, which is inherent to the complexity of the material, and extraneous load, which is imposed by the way information is presented. Effective teaching strategies aim to minimize extraneous load while managing intrinsic load appropriately, thereby freeing cognitive resources for schema construction and automation. Recent research has extended CLT to multimedia learning, showing that redundant or split-attention formats can unnecessarily increase extraneous load, hindering comprehension. Conversely, well-designed materials that integrate visual and verbal information can optimize learning outcomes.
❓ Según el pasaje, ¿cuál es el objetivo principal del diseño instruccional efectivo en el contexto de la teoría de la carga cognitiva?
A. A. Eliminar toda carga cognitiva para los estudiantes.
B. B. Para aumentar la carga extrínseca con el fin de desafiar a los aprendices.
C. C. Para reducir la carga extrínseca mientras se gestiona la carga intrínseca
D. D. Centrarse únicamente en la carga intrínseca sin considerar la presentación.
✅ 正确答案
C. To reduce extraneous load while managing intrinsic 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