Element interactivity as the CLT criterion of subject complexity¶

Theory · All theories
Evidence · 2 claims (2 for) · 1 study (1 causal), q2 · 0 of 1 report an effect size · 2 claims rest on one study

Description¶

Within Cognitive Load Theory, element interactivity is defined as "the coordination of many information elements working simultaneously to complete a task" and is treated as the criterion of a subject's complexity. The higher the element interactivity, the heavier the working memory load. The article applies it to thermodynamics by having two expert lecturers classify the eight sessions' topics as low, high or very high element interactivity, judging interactivity relative to other topics within the unit rather than across chemistry.

Design Implications¶

Context¶

Requirements¶

• Students' prior knowledge must be determined first, since the number of items a learner must process depends on both the material's complexity and the learner's prior knowledge.

Constraints¶

• The classification compares subjects only within the thermodynamics unit, not against other chemistry subjects.

Target Learners¶

• first-year university chemistry students

Target Learning Objectives¶

• understanding thermodynamics concepts of varying complexity

Claims¶

• Retention Transfer Scores Decrease With Element Interactivity [+M]
• Mental Effort Study Time Indicate Element Interactivity [+M]

Related Theories¶

• Cognitive Load Theory
• Cognitive Load Theory: working-memory limits, human cognitive architecture, and three load types

Examples¶

• Teachers should determine a topic's element interactivity level and develop an instructional design appropriate to it
• Cognitive Load Reduction (CLT Scaffolding Approach)
• 4C/ID (Four-Component Instructional Design)

Key Sources¶

• Kala, N., & Ayas, A. (2023). Effect of instructional design based on cognitive load theory on students' performances and the indicators of element interactivity. Journal of Turkish Science Education, 20(3), 468-489. https://doi.org/10.36681/tused.2023.027