Cognitive Load
Version 1.0.0 · Updated 2026-07-28
CORE DEFINITION
In cognitive psychology, cognitive load is the effort being used in the working memory. According to work conducted in the field of instructional design and pedagogy, broadly, there are three types of cognitive load: Intrinsic cognitive load is the effort associated with a specific topic. Germane cognitive load refers to the work put into creating a permanent store of knowledge (a schema).
SCAFFOLDING EFFECT
Reduce cognitive load
In cognitive psychology, cognitive load is the effort being used in the working memory. According to work conducted in the field of instructional design and pedagogy, broadly, there are three types of
Anchor fast decisions
Total load = intrinsic (task difficulty) + extraneous (poor presentation) + germane (deep processing). Extraneous load is 'bad' load and should be reduced; germane load is 'good' load and should be encouraged; working memory capacity is limited, and overload prevents learning.
MINIMUM ACTION
In progress 0/1Practice this model in one real situation:
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Source support: Explicit
- en.wikipedia.orghttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cognitive_loadverified
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