Cognitive Loads and Training Success in a Video-Based Online Training Course

According to research based on cognitive load theory, the way of presenting information in an instructional environment is essential to the learning outcome. By avoiding unnecessary extraneous load caused by badly designed instructions and other sources, learners are more likely to successfully construct knowledge. In addition, learner characteristics are known to affect learning.

This study explores the effects of learners’ online learning experience, domain-specific prior knowledge, computer attitude and computer anxiety on their perceived intrinsic, extraneous and germane load and on their learning outcome in a video-based training course about media design for employees.

Learning outcome was assessed by ratings of subjective learning success, ratings of professional competence, the number of completed modules and performance. None of the learning outcome variables could be modelled when entering learner characteristics in a regression analysis, but all could be modelled using the cognitive load ratings.

Thus, extraneous, intrinsic and germane load were the most important factors for explaining the learning outcome. This result points to the importance of instructional design and particularly to managing cognitive load in online training scenarios.