How can cognitive overload negatively affect training?

Cognitive overload can significantly interfere with the effectiveness of training by reducing retention and the ability to apply new knowledge. When learners are bombarded with too much information at once, or when the material is too complex without sufficient support, their cognitive capacity is exceeded. This leads to difficulties in processing, understanding, and remembering the new information being presented.

As a result, learners may struggle to make connections between concepts, find it harder to engage with the material meaningfully, and ultimately experience less successful transfer of training to real-world applications. The cognitive load theory indicates that effective learning occurs when instructional designs consider the limitations of working memory. Therefore, managing cognitive load by pacing information, providing breaks, and using multisensory instructional methods is crucial for ensuring that learners can retain and apply what they have learned effectively.