What does the term "cognitive load" refer to in learning?

Cognitive load refers to the amount of mental effort and capacity required to process information in the learning process. When learners are presented with new information, their brains must allocate resources to understand, organize, and integrate that information with what they already know. High cognitive load can occur when the material is complex or when learners are overwhelmed with too much information at once, leading to decreased effectiveness in learning.

Understanding cognitive load is crucial for designing effective training programs. It's important to balance the complexity of the content with the learners' existing knowledge and skills to ensure they can engage with and retain the information being taught. By managing cognitive load effectively, trainers can help learners achieve better comprehension and long-term retention of information.