Sweller’s Cognitive Load Theory and Mayer’s Multimedia Principles are two of the most fundamental and foundational elements in creating effective educational experiences. In this episode, Sean dives into the meaning of these important theories and how to apply them to generate outstanding learning outcomes. 

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References / further reading

E-Learning Heroes. “Applying Mayer’s Principles of Multimedia Learning in E-Learning #330.” Accessed December 20, 2021. https://community.articulate.com/articles/applying-principles-of-multimedia-learning-in-elearning.

Center for Teaching and Learning | Wiley Education Services. “Principles of Multimedia Learning,” July 19, 2016. https://ctl.wiley.com/principles-of-multimedia-learning/.

“Cognitive Load Theory: Helping Students’ Learning Systems Function More Efficiently | Franklin University.” Accessed December 20, 2021. https://www.franklin.edu/institute/blog/cognitive-load-theory-helping-students-learning-systems-function-more-efficiently.

Kirschner, Paul A. “Cognitive Load Theory: Implications of Cognitive Load Theory on the Design of Learning.” Learning and Instruction 12, no. 1 (February 2002): 1–10. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0959-4752(01)00014-7.

Lovell, Oliver. Sweller’s Cognitive Load Theory in Action. Melton, Woodbridge: John Catt Educational, 2020.

Mayer, Richard E., Julie Heiser, and Steve Lonn. “Cognitive Constraints on Multimedia Learning: When Presenting More Material Results in Less Understanding.” Journal of Educational Psychology 93, no. 1 (2001): 187–98. https://doi.org/DOI: 10.1037//0022-0663.93.1.187.

Mayer, Richard, and Richard E. Mayer. The Cambridge Handbook of Multimedia Learning. Cambridge University Press, 2005.

Sweller, John. “Cognitive Load During Problem Solving: Effects on Learning.” Cognitive Science 12, no. 2 (1988): 257–85. https://doi.org/10.1207/s15516709cog1202_4.