Measuring Knowledge to Optimize Cognitive Load Factors During Instruction. 论文

摘要

The expertise reversal effect occurs when a learning procedure that is effective for novices becomes ineffective for more knowledgeable learners. The authors consider how to match instructional presen-tations to levels of learner knowledge. Experiments 1–2 were designed to develop a schema-based rapid method of measuring learners ’ knowledge in a specific area. Experimental data using algebra and geometry materials for students in Grades 9–10 indicated a highly significant correlation (up to.92) between performance on the rapid measure and traditional measures of knowledge, with test times reduced by factors of 4.9 and 2.5, respectively. Experiments 3–4 used this method to monitor learners’ cognitive performance to determine which instructional design should be used for given levels of expertise. The expertise reversal effect (see Kalyuga, Ayres, Chandler, & Sweller, 2003) occurs when an instructional procedure that is relatively effective for novices becomes ineffective for more knowledgeable learners. A consequence of the effect is that an instructor must be able to accurately estimate the knowledge levels of learners to determine an appropriate instructional design for