Cognitive load

A term coming from cognitive psychology, cognitive load refers to the used amount of working memory resources when engaging in a certain activity (like learning something new or when solving a specific problem).

The amount of cognitive load that is required for a task matters because our working memory is limited. We can only keep about 4 pieces of information in working memory at once.

Cognitive load may be subdivided into three distinct categories:

1. Intrinsic Cognitive Load
2. Extraneous Cognitive Load
3. Germane Cognitive Load

References

• “Cognitive Load” In Wikipedia, March 3, 2021.
• Connie Malamed. “What Is Cognitive Load?” The ELearning Coach (blog), January 4, 2019.
• Jamie Matthews. “Programming and Cognitive Load” January 21, 2019.
• Waude, Adam. “Cognitive Load Theory: How ‘Cognitive Load’ Affects Memory” January 17, 2017.