What is cognitive load?
Cognitive load describes the processing demands placed on limited working memory during learning.
Key concepts and practice
Content can be intrinsically complex, while cluttered layouts and irrelevant explanations add avoidable demands. Stepwise examples and manageable chunks can help novices. As knowledge grows, more independent tasks become feasible.
Examples, evaluation and limits
The goal is not to remove challenge but to focus attention on essential ideas. Connect visuals clearly to text and use decorative detail selectively. The same design may work differently across levels.
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