Cognitive Load Optimisation – A New, Practical, Easy-to-Use Teaching Method for Enhancing STEM Educational Outcomes Based on the Science of Learning

摘要

There are many learning theories each with their own strengths, weaknesses, advocates and critics. However, the theories in use today such as Constructivism and Behaviourism are qualitative and hence arguably best described as guidelines and subject to interpretation resulting in wide variations in the quality of educational outcomes. By contrast a scientifically based learning theory can potentially provide an objective, quantitative method as the basis of teaching. This paper presents details of the Cognitive Load Optimisation method. This Science of Learning method is simple to use and provides a quantitatively defined optimum learning path resulting in significant improvements in learning outcomes in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics subjects in three different education sectors.