All articles tagged with #cognitive load
A Canadian study found that people blink less when listening to speech, especially in noisy environments, suggesting blinking is linked to cognitive effort and attention, and could potentially be used to assess mental workload in the future.
The article emphasizes that cognitive load, or the mental effort required to understand and modify code, is crucial in software design. It discusses how simplicity, subjective perceptions of what is simple, and practices like minimizing complexity, proper naming, and commenting can reduce cognitive load. The author advocates for balancing rules with judgment, understanding that complexity is inevitable but manageable through experience, good design, and team practices. Ultimately, minimizing cognitive load helps make software more maintainable and adaptable, aligning with principles from John Ousterhout's philosophy.
Watching videos at faster speeds can save time and boost engagement, but research shows that speeds above 1.5x may impair memory retention, especially in older adults, due to increased cognitive load. While younger people might adapt better, the long-term effects and impact on motivation remain uncertain.
A recent study suggests that using ChatGPT for research may weaken neural connectivity and cognitive engagement compared to traditional methods, raising concerns about its impact on brain function and accuracy in quoting, especially in educational settings.
A study links pupil dilation to working memory performance, suggesting that eye measurements could serve as a non-invasive way to assess and improve focus and cognitive function, with potential applications in education and clinical settings.
Researchers at Georgia Tech have developed a neural network, RTNet, that mimics human decision-making by incorporating uncertainty and evidence accumulation. This model, tested on handwritten digits, shows similar accuracy, response time, and confidence patterns to humans, potentially leading to more reliable AI systems and reducing cognitive load in daily decision-making.
Generative AI tools are rapidly emerging to transform knowledge work in various industries. Companies are investing billions in adopting these technologies, recognizing the potential benefits of efficiency and productivity gains. By using generative AI tools, individuals can reduce cognitive load, enhance cognitive abilities, and improve learning effectiveness. It is recommended to start using generative AI now and help colleagues use it wisely.