Knowledge elaboration: A cognitive load perspective

The process of knowledge elaboration is considered from the perspective of cognitive load theory. This theory assumes that the available knowledge structures in long-term memory (LTM) are used to organize and guide cognitive processing in complex learning. Accordingly, the role of external instructional guidance in the process of knowledge elaboration could be described as providing a substitute for knowledge structures missing from LTM. Thus, the executive guidance in complex learning environments is shared between the person (based on his/her LTM knowledge structures) and another expert or instructional means. This article analyzes instructional implications of this assumption. Adaptive learning environments are suggested for tailoring knowledge elaboration processes to changing characteristics of individual learners. Means for identifying and predicting the learner's LTM-based executive guidance are proposed so that they can be utilized in the building of adaptive learning environments.     

Chemistry problem solving instruction: a comparison of three computer-based formats for learning from hierarchical network problem representations

Within the cognitive load theory framework, we designed and compared three alternative instructional solution formats that can be derived from a common static hierarchical network representation depicting problem structure. The interactive-solution format permitted students to search in self-controlled manner for solution steps, static-solution format displayed all solutions steps, and no-solution format did not have solution steps. When we matched instructional time across the formats, in relation to the complex molarity problems rather than the dilution problems, differential transfer performance existed between the static-solution or no-solution formats and the interactive-solution format, but not between the static-solution format and no-solution format. The manner in which learners interact with the static-solution and no-solution formats depends on their level of expertise in the chemistry domain. With considerable learner expertise, provision of solution steps may be redundant incurring extraneous cognitive load. Absence of the solution steps may not have left sufficient cognitive capacity for germane cognitive load as some beginning learners lacked the prior knowledge to deduce the solution steps. Searching for solution steps presumably incurred extraneous cognitive load which interfered with learning and hence, in the interactive-solution format, it outweighed the benefit of engaging in self-regulated interaction with the content. Hence, cognitive load theory is a promising tool to predict the mental load associated with learning from the three alternative computer-based instructional formats.     

Using the theory of successful intelligence as a framework for developing assessments in AP physics

A new test of Advanced Placement Physics, explicitly designed to balance both content and cognitive-processing skills, was developed using Sternberg’s theory of successful intelligence. The test was administered to 281 AP Physics students from 10 schools during the 2006–2007 school year. Six empirically distinguishable profiles of strengths and weaknesses emerged from an exploratory Q-type factor analysis across the four cognitive-skill areas assessed (i.e., memory, analytical, creative, and practical skills). These profiles replicated those found in previous research in the domains of AP Psychology and AP Statistics. Furthermore, achievement differences between ethnic groups on various cognitive subscales were reduced as compared with traditional estimates. The results provide evidence of the importance of integrating modern theories of cognitive processing into large-scale assessments.     

英国文学多媒体教学手段中的认知负荷调节

认知负荷理论把工作记忆的限制性看作学习的主要障碍。在英国文学课程教学内容的内在认知负荷相对固定的前提下,应该在多媒体教学手段的设计和使用中减少外在认知负荷,增加相关认知负荷,从而改善学习效果。     

Situated Learning: Conceptualization and Measurement

A focus on the interaction between cognitive schemas and context in situ has been suggested as fundamental in organizational decision making and information interpretation. Past research suggests that the situation and the social interaction that occur during learning at the cognitive level consist of factors that affect the process, but the research lacks a coherent explanation for how those factors affect it. We propose a conceptualization of learning, termed situated learning, which accounts for these factors. By drawing on situated cognition theory, social learning theory, and the theory of mental models, we identify and measure four components of situated learning, that is, thematic focus, cognitive absorption, social structure, and participation. Among the most important lessons for researchers and practitioners is the need to consider learning as a constellation of the four components instead of an indivisible phenomenon. This perspective can enhance our understanding of cognitive processes, such as information interpretation and decision making.     

转换生成语言学与认知语言学对比

转换生成语言学和认知语言学之间有相似之处,但它们的哲学和心理基础、语言观、研究目标、研究方法等方面有较大的差异,通过两个流派的对比研究,能更清楚地认识其独特的特征。     

How does early childhood care and education affect cognitive development? An international review of the effects of early interventions for children from different social backgrounds

A number of authors have investigated the impact of early childhood education and care programs on the development of children. Often they have focused on the effects on children from socio-economically disadvantaged families. To assess the effects of various preschool programs on cognitive development, recent key studies were reviewed. In addition, the extent to which these programs could establish equal educational opportunities for children from different social backgrounds was evaluated. Program start, intensity, and duration were considered. The findings indicate that the vast majority of recent early education and care programs had considerable positive short-term effects and somewhat smaller long-term effects on cognitive development and that in relative terms children from socio-economically disadvantaged families made as much or slightly more progress than their more advantaged peers. Despite this, early childhood education and care cannot compensate completely for developmental deficits due to unfavorable learning conditions in disadvantaged milieus. Implications for research and policy are discussed.     

认知视角下的习语可分析性与习语教学

传统习语观极大制约着习语研究和习语教学。认知语言学理论为习语的研究与理解提供了理论基础和认知框架,同时也为习语教学提供了新的视角。借助隐喻、转喻和常规知识等认知机制能够对大多数习语意义进行分析;在教学中,应关注习语并注重对习语认知分析的课堂输入和适当教学策略的配合,使学习者意识到汉、英习语在概念体系和文化内涵上的异同,从而培养和提高其准确运用习语的能力。     

Children’s levels of contingent self-esteem and social and emotional outcomes

Contingent self-esteem (CSE) describes the degree to which self-esteem is dependent on meeting day-to-day appraisals from oneself and others. This will vary between individuals, ranging from lower to higher CSE. A lower CSE is related to a range of adaptive social and emotional outcomes in adolescents and young adults. This study explores children’s CSE and how this associates with behavioural outcomes. A total of 280 children between the ages of 9 and 11 years completed a composite questionnaire on aspects of their self-esteem and behaviour. Children’s class teachers completed behavioural outcome questionnaires for a random sample of 100 of these children. Based on teachers’ and children’s scores, high levels of global self-esteem were associated with lower CSE and fewer behavioural difficulties. CSE domains of social feedback and physical appearance retained significant associations with behavioural outcomes after controlling for global self-esteem. This may relate to the degree that children depend on the perceived evaluations of others. Implications for educational psychologists are highlighted.     

Load reduction instruction: Exploring a framework that assesses explicit instruction through to independent learning

Load reduction instruction (LRI) is an instructional approach aimed at managing the cognitive burden on students in the initial stages of learning; then, as fluency and automaticity develop, students are encouraged to engage in guided independent learning. LRI comprises five factors: difficulty reduction, support and scaffolding, practice, feedback, and guided independence. This study examined an instrument (the Load Reduction Instruction Scale, LRIS) aimed at assessing these five factors. Among a sample of high school students from 40 classrooms, findings supported the validity of the LRIS, the conceptualising underpinning it, and its potential to guide instructional practice.