- Title: The effect of clarity on learning: impacting motivation through cognitive load
- Authors: Serki and Bolkan
- Access the original paper here
- Listen to a deep-dive podcast:
Paper summary
This research study investigates the impact of clear instruction on student learning. The researchers hypothesize that clarity’s effect is indirect, working through reduced cognitive load and subsequently increased student motivation. An experiment using structured versus unstructured lessons on social cognitive theory was conducted with 252 students. Results supported the hypothesis, showing clearer lessons led to higher test scores via lower cognitive load and improved self-efficacy and motivation. Limitations included the relatively small effect size and the artificial nature of the text-based learning environment.
What are the key implications for teachers in the classroom?
The findings from the study discussed in the source have several key implications for teachers in the classroom.
- Clear instruction, particularly through structured lessons, can significantly enhance student learning. This is because clear instruction reduces cognitive load, allowing students to better process and retain information. Teachers can achieve this by incorporating organizational cues, breaking down complex paragraphs, and using visual aids like headings and numbering.
- Reducing cognitive load not only improves students’ ability to learn but also enhances their motivation to learn. When students find the material easy to understand and follow, they are more likely to feel confident in their abilities (self-efficacy) and find the learning process enjoyable (intrinsic value), ultimately leading to increased motivation.
- Teachers should be mindful that unclear instruction can have a detrimental “double jeopardy” effect on students. It not only makes the material difficult to comprehend but also demotivates students from actively engaging in the learning process. Students facing unclear instruction may experience reduced self-efficacy and find the material less interesting, leading to a decline in their motivation to learn.
- While the study focused on the impact of structured lessons, teachers should explore other strategies to enhance clarity. These can include avoiding jargon, using concrete examples, providing opportunities for interaction to check understanding, and ensuring the material is coherent and relevant.
- It is essential to recognize that the impact of clear teaching might be gradual and cumulative. While a single lesson might show a small improvement in student learning, consistent clarity over time can lead to more substantial gains in understanding and motivation.
By understanding the connection between clarity, cognitive load, and motivation, teachers can create a learning environment that is both effective and engaging for students.
Quote
When teachers are unclear, they make the material harder for students to learn and, instead of putting in extra effort to compensate, students also become less motivated to learn.
