Cognitive load theory and its measurement: a study of secondary tasks in relation to working memory

Abstract

ABSTRACT Cognitive load theory has been influential in learning sciences. Unfortunately, the theory has struggled to develop a reliable and valid measure of its central construct of cognitive load. As such new research in the field has been exploring the usage of secondary tasks. The current work juxtaposed two secondary tasks, the rhythmic tapping method (RTM) and the tactile detection response task (TDRT) in order to examine the secondary tasks. Findings indicated the RTM interfered more with auditory processing than visuospatial processing, while the TDRT had similar interference for auditory and visuospatial processing. The RTM secondary task may be a modality specific measurement method, while the TDRT is not. Lastly, the TDRT was sensitive to measuring the difference in levels of cognitive processing, but the RTM was not sensitive. More research is suggested to apply the TDRT within the framework for cognitive load theory and verify the modality-specific nature of the RTM.