Grounded in a robust evidence base, cognitive load theory provides theoretical and empirical support for explicit models of instruction. Research in cognitive load theory demonstrates that instructional techniques are most effective when they are designed to accord with how human brains learn and use knowledge.

This paper describes the research on cognitive load theory and what it means for more effective teaching practice. The first part of the paper explains how human brains learn according to cognitive load theory, and outlines the evidence base for the theory. The second part of the paper examines the implications of cognitive load theory for teaching practice, and describes some recommendations that are directly transferable to the classroom.