A Practical New 21st Century Learning Theory for Significantly Improving STEM Learning Outcomes at all Educational Levels
Stanislaw Paul Maj 1 2 *
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1 SPM Consulting, AUSTRALIA2 Assumption University, THAILAND* Corresponding Author

Abstract

Current educational theories, such as Constructivism, are based on subjective principles which are open to interpretation and may result in wide variations in the quality of learning outcomes. Cognitive Load Optimization is a new quantitative, Science of Learning theory. Using this method, it is possible to define schemas (mental patterns of knowledge) with the quantitatively optimized minimum cognitive load which are the basis of instructional material development. Such materials represent the easiest possible learning paths. In one proof of concept experiment this new method was used to teach first year undergraduate mathematics to mature students in online mode. The pass rate and retention rates were both 100% and all learning objectives were met. Extensive evaluations strongly suggest that Cognitive Load Optimization can significantly improve teaching and learning outcomes in all STEM disciplines at all educational levels – primary and secondary school, college and university.

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This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.

Article Type: Research Article

EURASIA J Math Sci Tech Ed, 2022, Volume 18, Issue 2, Article No: em2073

https://doi.org/10.29333/ejmste/11510

Publication date: 10 Jan 2022

Article Views: 5919

Article Downloads: 2240

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