What happens when cognitive load is at a high level?

When cognitive load is high, retention of information decreases due to the brain's limited capacity to process information at any given time. Cognitive load refers to the amount of mental effort being used in the working memory. When this load exceeds an individual's manageable capacity, it can overwhelm their cognitive resources, leading to difficulties in learning and recall.

High cognitive load can hinder the ability to focus on and internalize new information, which is crucial for effective learning and retention. When learners are bombarded with too much information or complex tasks simultaneously, their attentional resources are strained, resulting in decreased overall retention. Thus, this option highlights a fundamental principle in educational psychology concerning how cognitive load influences learning outcomes.