Research Foundation

Research Foundation

Every tool inside Learning Intelligence Lab is inspired by established research, learning science, instructional design principles and organizational psychology. This page provides the theoretical background behind each interactive tool.

Learning Intelligence Lab is an educational project. These tools are demonstrations inspired by evidence-informed practices and should support — not replace — professional judgement.

Purpose

Estimate the mental effort a learning experience is likely to demand so designers can reduce unnecessary load.

Scientific foundation
Cognitive Load Theory
Key concepts
  • Intrinsic Load
  • Extraneous Load
  • Germane Load
Influential researchers
Practical application

Use during storyboard reviews to pressure-test complexity, chunking and modality.

Recommended reading
  • Sweller, J. (1988). Cognitive load during problem solving. Cognitive Science.
  • Mayer, R. (2009). Multimedia Learning.
Learning Intelligence Lab translates research into practical tools for Learning & Development professionals.