The Early Career Framework states teachers should learn how to... Avoid overloading working memory, by breaking complex material into smaller steps (e.g. using partially
completed examples to focus pupils on the specific steps).
In the ever-evolving landscape of education, teachers play a pivotal role in shaping the cognitive development of their students. One key challenge lies in avoiding the overload of working memory, ensuring that complex material is presented in a way that facilitates understanding and retention. This blog post explores the importance of teachers learning to break down complex material into smaller steps, using techniques such as partially completed examples to focus pupils on specific steps. Rooted in academic references, we delve into the profound impact of this pedagogical approach on student learning.
Understanding Working Memory and Cognitive Load
1. Working Memory: A Cognitive Workhorse
Working memory serves as the cognitive workhorse in the learning process, allowing individuals to process and manipulate information temporarily (Baddeley, 2000). However, this mental workspace has limitations, and overloading it with complex material can hinder comprehension and impede the learning process.
2. Cognitive Load and Its Impact
Cognitive load, the mental effort required for processing information, is a crucial factor in effective learning (Sweller et al., 2011). When learners are presented with complex material that exceeds the capacity of their working memory, it can lead to cognitive overload, impeding their ability to understand and retain information.
Breaking Down Complex Material: A Pedagogical Imperative
1. Recognising Cognitive Limitations
Effective teaching involves recognising the cognitive limitations of working memory and adapting instructional strategies accordingly (Sweller et al., 2011). Teachers who acknowledge the finite capacity of working memory understand the need to break down complex material into more digestible components, promoting optimal cognitive processing.
2. Breaking Down Steps for Clarity
Breaking down complex material involves dissecting it into smaller, manageable steps (Ambrose et al., 2010). This approach aims to guide students through the learning process one step at a time, reducing cognitive load and facilitating a more thorough understanding of each component before moving to the next.
Using Partially Completed Examples
1. Harnessing the Power of Partial Completion
Partially completed examples are a powerful tool in breaking down complex material (Renkl, 2002). By providing students with examples that contain some pre-solved components, teachers guide them through specific steps of problem-solving or concept application. This approach directs students' attention to the critical steps without overwhelming them with the entire process.
2. Focusing Pupils on Specific Steps
The use of partially completed examples serves to focus pupils on specific steps, fostering a more targeted and structured approach to learning (Renkl, 2002). Rather than presenting an entire problem or concept at once, teachers can highlight and elaborate on individual steps, allowing students to grasp each element before moving forward.
Strategies for Implementing Partially Completed Examples
1. Strategic Selection of Examples
Teachers should strategically select examples that align with the learning objectives and highlight key steps in problem-solving or concept application (Renkl, 2002). Careful consideration of which steps to pre-solve in the examples ensures that students are guided through the most critical components of the learning process.
2. Gradual Release of Responsibility
The use of partially completed examples aligns with the gradual release of responsibility model (Pearson & Gallagher, 1983). Initially, teachers provide extensive support through the partially completed examples, gradually shifting responsibility to the students as they gain confidence and competence in the targeted steps.
The Impact on Student Learning
1. Enhanced Understanding and Retention
Breaking down complex material using partially completed examples enhances students' understanding and retention (Ambrose et al., 2010). By focusing on specific steps, students can build a more robust mental representation of the learning material. This, in turn, contributes to more profound comprehension and better retention.
2. Reduced Cognitive Load
The strategic use of partially completed examples reduces cognitive load (Sweller et al., 2011). As students navigate through the guided steps, the cognitive burden is minimised, allowing them to concentrate on mastering each element before progressing. This reduction in cognitive load supports optimal learning conditions.
3. Increased Confidence and Self-Efficacy
Breaking down complex material empowers students and enhances their confidence and self-efficacy (Bandura, 1994). When students can successfully navigate and understand individual steps, they develop a sense of competence. This increased confidence not only positively influences their current learning but also fosters a growth mindset for future challenges.
In the realm of education, the mastery of breaking down complex material is an essential skill for teachers. By understanding the limitations of working memory and employing strategies like partially completed examples, educators create an environment where students can navigate the learning journey with clarity and confidence.
As architects of learning, teachers have the transformative power to shape not only what students learn but also how they learn. In the strategic deconstruction of complex material lies the potential for a more effective, engaging, and supportive educational experience—one that cultivates not only knowledge but also the skills and mindset necessary for lifelong learning.
References:
Ambrose, S. A., Bridges, M. W., DiPietro, M., Lovett, M. C., & Norman, M. K. (2010). How Learning Works: Seven Research-Based Principles for Smart Teaching. Jossey-Bass.
Baddeley, A. (2000). The episodic buffer: a new component of working memory? Trends in Cognitive Sciences, 4(11), 417-423.
Bandura, A. (1994). Self-efficacy. In V. S. Ramachaudran (Ed.), Encyclopedia of Human Behavior (Vol. 4, pp. 71-81). Academic Press.
Pearson, P. D., & Gallagher, M. C. (1983). The instruction of reading comprehension. Contemporary Educational Psychology, 8(3), 317-344.
Renkl, A. (2002). Worked-Out Examples: Instructional Explanations Support Learning by Self-Explanation. Learning and Instruction, 12(5), 529-556.
Sweller, J., Ayres, P., & Kalyuga, S. (2011). Cognitive Load Theory. Springer.