Volume III: Education and Ecological Literacy

Cognitive Load Theory to Overcome Student’s Cognitive load in Understanding Nahwu

  • D Abdul Kohar UIN Sunan Gunung Djati Bandung, Indonesia
  • Jaja Jahari UIN Sunan Gunung Djati Bandung, Indonesia
  • Sarbini UIN Sunan Gunung Djati Bandung, Indonesia
  • Moh Sulhan UIN Sunan Gunung Djati Bandung, Indonesia

Keywords

Cognitive load theory; Nahwu Science; students’ cognitive load; new learning strategy.

Abstract

This study aims to identify the cognitive load theory as a learning strategy used in teaching Nahwu science and to explore students’ feelings, opinions, and achievements relating to learning Nahwu science based on cognitive load theory. Employing class observation combined with interviews and supported by documents, this research used a qualitative approach. Through this approach, the implementation of cognitive load theory in the class can be identified empirically, and students’ feeling, opinions, and achievement can be explored clearly. The findings indicate that the teacher manages the intrinsic load through arranging the material from the simple to the complex and suiting the objective to students' competence. Besides that, the teacher minimizes the extraneous load by avoiding confusing information or material and using suitable learning media and simple and clear instruction. Furthermore, the teacher maximized the germane load by connecting the previous material to the current material, using scaffolding, and giving motivation. On the other side, students expressed that they felt easier than before in understanding Nahwu science because of using the scaffolding principle and clear explanations from the simple to the complex. They are motivated to study and are not scared when they are asked, and their score is higher than before. Based on that, the cognitive load theory is suitable to use in teaching Nahwu science by managing intrinsic load, minimizing extraneous load, and maximizing germane load. Ultimately, this article contributes to giving a new strategy to teach Nahwu science, especially in Islamic institutions.

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