Applying Cognitive Load Theory to Learning
Cognitive load theory: Working memory holds 7±2 items. Three types: intrinsic (content complexity), extraneous (poor design), germane (deep processing).
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Cognitive load theory: Working memory holds 7±2 items. Three types: intrinsic (content complexity), extraneous (poor design), germane (deep processing).
Apply communication theory: senders encode messages, receivers decode them with different interpretations. Anticipate misunderstandings by checking meaning.
Apply game theory: identify game type as zero-sum or positive-sum cooperation, map payoffs for each party, and find Nash equilibrium outcomes.
Causal loops and leverage points sound abstract until you use them on a real problem. Here is how to turn systems thinking into decisions your team will follow.
Apply learning science: Spaced repetition at increasing intervals, retrieval practice testing yourself before reviewing, interleaving topics, elaboration.
Make mental models actionable: Test predictions against reality, use them to guide decisions, identify blind spots, and refine through feedback loops.
Apply network theory: weak ties connect different clusters bringing novel information. Strong ties provide reliable support and trust between close friends.
Apply information theory: Entropy measures surprise and uncertainty. High entropy is informative, low is predictable. Remove redundancy, prioritize signal.
Apply behavioral economics: recognize cognitive biases like anchoring and loss aversion, understand status quo bias, and design choices accounting for them.
Apply decision theory: list all options, define outcomes for each, assign probabilities to outcomes, calculate expected values, then choose highest value.
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