Self-paced doesn’t mean lower effort: the cognitive load of online learning

There’s a particular kind of optimism that comes with assigning someone a self-paced online course. From an organisational perspective it feels considerate. People can do it in their own time. There’s no scheduling pressure, no room to book, no calendar clash to navigate. It’s flexible, accessible, and respects people’s autonomy. And yet, if you’ve ever… Read More Self-paced doesn’t mean lower effort: the cognitive load of online learning

It’s Not Just the Tech: The Hidden Cognitive Load of the Physical Workplace

A few days ago I was at a specialist appointment with one of my kids. At some point the conversation turned to teen fatigue across the school week – the kind of bone-tired-by-Thursday feeling that a lot of parents will recognise. The specialist responded in a very matter-of-fact way: “It’s cognitive load”. I thought about that… Read More It’s Not Just the Tech: The Hidden Cognitive Load of the Physical Workplace

The Hidden Cost of Tool Sprawl: What It’s Actually Doing to Your Brain

I’m trying to walk more at the moment, and walking means alone time, pondering, and ideas… and more writing. The concept of cognitive load has been on my mind, which I think was triggered by a small, unremarkable moment. I was trying to find a file. I couldn’t remember if it was in Teams, SharePoint,… Read More The Hidden Cost of Tool Sprawl: What It’s Actually Doing to Your Brain