What does cognitive load theory suggest about instructional design?

Cognitive load theory emphasizes the importance of managing the amount and complexity of information presented to learners during the instructional process. This theory posits that working memory has a limited capacity and can be easily overloaded, which hinders the acquisition and retention of new information.

The correct answer highlights that optimal instructional design should aim to avoid overloading working memory. This can be achieved by organizing information hierarchically, simplifying complex concepts, and breaking down material into smaller, more manageable chunks. By doing so, instructional designers can enhance the learning experience, allowing learners to effectively process and retain information without feeling overwhelmed.

In contrast, the other options do not align with the principles of cognitive load theory. For instance, suggesting that emotional impact has no role in learning disregards the significance of cognitive load in influencing how learners engage with content and process information. Proposing high amounts of information presentation contradicts the goal of reducing cognitive load, which aims to make learning more effective. Lastly, while visual aids can play a role in supporting comprehension, they are not the sole influence on learning; thus, attributing most of the learning process to them lacks a comprehensive perspective.