Cognitive load theory vs. constructivist approaches: which best leads to efficient, deep learning?

Computer-assisted learning, in the form of simulation-based training, is heavily focused upon by the military. Because computer-based learning offers highly portable, reusable, and cost-efficient training options, the military has dedicated significant resources to the investigation of instructional...

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Publicado en:Journal of Computer Assisted Learning Vol. 27; no. 2; pp. 133 - 146
Autores principales: Vogel-Walcutt, J.J., Gebrim, J.B., Bowers, C., Carper, T.M., Nicholson, D.
Formato: equations & formulas research tables/charts Journal Article
Publicado: Wiley-Blackwell Apr2011
Acceso en línea:Ver este registro en EBSCOhost
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      pub: Wiley-Blackwell
      place: Malden, Massachusetts
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        atl: Cognitive load theory vs. constructivist approaches: which best leads to efficient, deep learning?
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          Vogel-Walcutt, J.J.
          Gebrim, J.B.
          Bowers, C.
          Carper, T.M.
          Nicholson, D.
        affil: Institute for Simulation and Training, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL, USA
      sug:
        subj:
          Models, Psychological
          Thinking
          Computer-Assisted Instruction
          Learning Methods
          Human
          Outcomes of Education
          Military Personnel Education
          Knowledge
          Decision Making Education
          Students, Undergraduate
          Data Analysis Software
          Univariate Statistics
          Analysis of Variance
          Post Hoc Analysis
          Questionnaires
      ab: Computer-assisted learning, in the form of simulation-based training, is heavily focused upon by the military. Because computer-based learning offers highly portable, reusable, and cost-efficient training options, the military has dedicated significant resources to the investigation of instructional strategies that improve learning efficiency within this environment. In order to identify efficient instructional strategies, this paper investigates the two major learning theories that dominate the recent literature on optimizing knowledge acquisition: cognitive load theory (CLT) and constructivism. According to CLT, instructional guidance that promotes efficient learning is most beneficial. Constructivist approaches, in contrast, emphasize the importance of developing a conceptual understanding of the learning material. Supporters of these theories have debated the merits and shortcomings of both positions. However, in the absence of consensus, instructional designers lack a well-defined model for training complex skills in a rapid, efficient manner. The current study investigates the relative utility of CLT and constructivist-based approaches for teaching complex skills using a military command and control task. Findings suggest that the acquisition of procedural, declarative, and conceptual knowledge, as well as decision-making skills, did not differ as a function of the type of instruction used. However, integrated knowledge was slightly better retained by the group provided with CLT-based instruction. These results are contrary to our expectation that constructivist approaches, which focus on the development and integration of information, would yield better performance in an applied problem-based environment. Thus, while contemporary researchers continue to defend the use of constructivist strategies for teaching, our research supports earlier findings that question the utility, efficiency, and impact of these strategies in applied domains.
      pubtype: Academic Journal
      doctype:
        equations & formulas
        research
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        Journal Article
      ougenre: Article
    language: English
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