Cognitive load

I recently attended a conference about teaching students with executive functioning challenges. Executive functions are a set of essential cognitive capabilities and skills typically encompassing t…

Key points for teachers on Sweller's Cognitive Load Theory.

Read the theory of cognitive load and ways to apply this theory to help your elementary or secondary students learn.

Cognitive load theory focuses on the amount of mental effort (or load) a person experiences while processing information. It also considers how this load affects learning and retention. This model focuses on three types of memory: sensory memory, working memory (or short-term memory), and long-term memory. Cognitive load, divided into extraneous, intrinsic, and germane loads, illuminates the challenges learners face in managing mental effort during learning. Instructional designers play...

Here's a quick rundown of Cognitive Load Theory, an increasingly popular concept in education. Learn about its benefits and how to manage it in the classroom.

How can you use Cognitive Load Theory to improve learning outcomes in your classroom?

Read the theory of cognitive load and ways to apply this theory to help your elementary or secondary students learn.

I used to use “cognitive load” as a sort of shorthand for how mentally taxing a task may be. I was wrong. I’d say things like,“That task has too much cognitive load,” meaning I thought it was too difficult for students to do. Cognitive load seemed to be like weight in a cart, something to … Continued

Of course, there are many different ways to confront cognitive loads, which can become time-consuming. We can get stuck making too many decisions about what to add or cut and then spend too much time designing what we decided we needed. What follows are the practices I use to manage my time wisely that align with the true definition of cognitive load theory.

Help your students succeedHow to reduce cognitive load for your students with special needs while they’re learning a new concept.Want to know more about Core...