Table of Contents
What is cognitive load in programming?
What is cognitive load? Cognitive load is a concept from cognitive psychology, originally developed by John Sweller, that is generally discussed in relation to learning. It is a measure of the amount of effort being used in the working memory.
How do you reduce extraneous cognitive load?
Extraneous cognitive load can be reduced by the way in which instructions are presented. We make sense of new material by referencing schema or mental models of pre-existing knowledge.
How do you get the mindset of a programmer?
The Five Elements of the Developer Mindset
- Learn to strap in and not stop until the job is done. Anyone who has ever dabbled in coding knows that it is an exercise in patience.
- Learn to love the pain.
- Remember WHY you are doing something!
- Remind yourself that EVERYONE needs help.
- Keep in mind that having fun is key.
How do you deal with cognitive overload?
Focus on one task at a time: Cognitive overload can result when your mind drifts to topics other than the task at hand. Try to create an attentional filter by willing yourself to concentrate on one topic at a time. Make to-do lists and calendar entries that set aside a certain amount of time for a specific task.
How do you reduce working memory loads?
“ Direct instruction characteristics that reduce working memory load include: a) frequent repetition of new material; b) practice until a high level of mastery is reached; c) systematic strengthening of long-term memory representations; and d) keeping students actively engaged by having them all respond in unison.”
What is the key to become a successful programmer?
You have to be passionate, but also constantly learning more and more about programming. Simply being interested in programming isn’t enough to succeed – we work like mad. Programming is a profession with no limits, so to become a successful programmer you have to think beyond the limits you’ve been told exist.
How can cognitive overload be prevented in the classroom?
Let’s break down exactly what we mean by those 3 types.
- Include elements already in your students long term memory.
- Don’t include anything that does not directly contribute to the learning goal.
- Encourage students to integrate the new information with existing knowledge.
How can cognitive overload be reduced in the classroom?
Strategies to reduce cognitive load
- Make connections. The more connections to previously learned material that you make, the less germane cognitive load there is for your students.
- Use routine.
- Provide time.
- Be clear and concise.
- Pay attention to purpose.
- Don’t forget emotions.