What does the term "chunking" refer to in instructional design?

The term "chunking" in instructional design refers to the practice of breaking down complex information into smaller, manageable units for learners. By presenting material in smaller "chunks," educators help learners process and retain information more effectively. This approach aligns with cognitive science principles regarding how humans learn and memorize information. It reduces cognitive overload and aids in enhancing understanding by allowing learners to focus on one piece of information at a time, ultimately facilitating better retention and recall.

Chunking is crucial for developing instructional materials that consider the limitations of working memory. By organizing information into coherent groups or categories, learners can integrate knowledge more efficiently and draw connections between concepts. This method is especially effective in scenarios where learners are tasked with acquiring substantial amounts of new information, as it promotes active engagement with the material, encouraging deeper learning.