Which theory focuses on the effects of cognitive load on learning?

Cognitive Load Theory focuses specifically on the idea that the human brain has a limited capacity for processing information, and it posits that learning is enhanced when the cognitive load is managed appropriately. This theory emphasizes the distinction between intrinsic, extraneous, and germane cognitive load, each of which affects how learners process information.

Intrinsic load refers to the inherent difficulty associated with the material itself, extraneous load involves how the information is presented, and germane load relates to the effort involved in learning and understanding the material. By optimizing cognitive load, educators and instructional designers can facilitate better learning experiences, helping learners to absorb and retain information more effectively.

In contrast, the other theories mentioned—behaviorism, constructivism, and humanistic psychology—focus on different aspects of learning. Behaviorism emphasizes observable behaviors and the responses to stimuli, constructivism centers on how learners construct their own understanding and knowledge through experiences, and humanistic psychology highlights the importance of personal growth and self-actualization in the learning process. Therefore, while all these theories contribute to our understanding of learning, Cognitive Load Theory explicitly addresses the cognitive processes at play during learning, making it the correct choice.