Understanding requires the creation of high element interactivity schemas. For example, understanding 3 * 4 = 12 requires the schema of 3 * 4 = 4 + 4 + 4 = 12, which is more complicated than rote memorization of the equation. 

Understanding and Cognitive Load

The cognitive load resulting from the creation of schemas. 

Johns Hopkins University

There are three types of cognitive load: intrinsic cognitive load, extraneous cognitive load, and germane cognitive load. 

Types of Cognitive Load

Sweller, J. (2011). Cognitive load theory. In Psychology of learning and motivation (Vol. 55, pp. 37-76). Academic Press.

Cognitive Load Theory

The cognitive load caused by the complexity of the knowledge. Information with low element interactivity creates low intrinsic cognitive load. 

Intrinsic Cognitive Load

The cognitive load caused by the way in which the information is presented. Some procedures of instruction present too many elements at once, resulting in a heavy extraneous cognitive load that interferes with learning.

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