Understanding Cognitive Load Theory for Better Memory Aids
Cognitive Load Theory (CLT) is really interesting for creating tools that help us remember things better. When we know how our brains take in information, we can design memory aids that actually work. Here’s how we can use CLT to help us with this.
First, let’s look at the three kinds of cognitive load:
Intrinsic Load: This is about how hard the material is. It depends on how complicated the content is and what the learner already knows.
Extraneous Load: This is the extra difficulty that comes from poor design or information that doesn’t help with understanding what's important.
Germane Load: This is the mental effort used for processing and understanding the material. We want to increase this!
Here are some easy ways to create better memory aids:
Break It Down: Divide tough information into smaller, easier pieces. Research by George Miller shows that our brains can handle about 7±2 items at a time. When we break things down, it makes it easier to remember later.
Use Both Words and Pictures: When you study, try using diagrams along with your notes. This way, you use both the verbal and visual parts of your brain, which helps you understand better while lowering unnecessary load.
Keep It Simple: Make sure your memory aids are clear and focused. Stay away from clutter and distractions. Use simple headings in notes and avoid fancy pictures that might confuse you.
Guide Learning Step-by-Step: Help learners by providing support that makes complex information easier to follow. For example, use memory tricks or outlines to lead them through the topic, which lowers the intrinsic load.
Test Yourself: Use quizzes or flashcards to help you recall information. This not only helps you remember, but also enables deeper understanding, increasing the germane load.
By using these strategies in your memory aids, you can remember things better and understand them more clearly. When we design with cognitive load in mind, we can create tools that make learning easier and much more fun!
Understanding Cognitive Load Theory for Better Memory Aids
Cognitive Load Theory (CLT) is really interesting for creating tools that help us remember things better. When we know how our brains take in information, we can design memory aids that actually work. Here’s how we can use CLT to help us with this.
First, let’s look at the three kinds of cognitive load:
Intrinsic Load: This is about how hard the material is. It depends on how complicated the content is and what the learner already knows.
Extraneous Load: This is the extra difficulty that comes from poor design or information that doesn’t help with understanding what's important.
Germane Load: This is the mental effort used for processing and understanding the material. We want to increase this!
Here are some easy ways to create better memory aids:
Break It Down: Divide tough information into smaller, easier pieces. Research by George Miller shows that our brains can handle about 7±2 items at a time. When we break things down, it makes it easier to remember later.
Use Both Words and Pictures: When you study, try using diagrams along with your notes. This way, you use both the verbal and visual parts of your brain, which helps you understand better while lowering unnecessary load.
Keep It Simple: Make sure your memory aids are clear and focused. Stay away from clutter and distractions. Use simple headings in notes and avoid fancy pictures that might confuse you.
Guide Learning Step-by-Step: Help learners by providing support that makes complex information easier to follow. For example, use memory tricks or outlines to lead them through the topic, which lowers the intrinsic load.
Test Yourself: Use quizzes or flashcards to help you recall information. This not only helps you remember, but also enables deeper understanding, increasing the germane load.
By using these strategies in your memory aids, you can remember things better and understand them more clearly. When we design with cognitive load in mind, we can create tools that make learning easier and much more fun!