Cognitive Load Theory: Insights for Each Enneagram Type

The cognitive load theory is an instructional design theory that focuses on the brain’s capacity to process and store information. Since this theory explains not only human cognition but also its effects on learning, it can be applied to improve information retention and optimize the learning process.

In this article, we’ll discuss the cognitive load theory in greater depth and share insights tailored to each Enneagram type to help you enhance your focus and maximize your learning efficiency.

What Is the Cognitive Load Theory?

The cognitive load theory is a psychological theory intended to explain how the brain processes and stores information. It was developed in 1988 by John Sweller, an Australian educational psychologist, and has since become widely applied in the fields of instruction and learning.

The fundamental premise of the cognitive load theory is that the working (or short-term) memory has a limited capacity; it can only process a small amount of information at a time. Therefore, overloading it reduces people’s capacity to acquire and retain information. Likewise, optimizing working memory resources maximizes the effectiveness of teaching and learning.

Importantly, the cognitive load theory recognizes three types of mental load: intrinsic, extraneous, and germane load.

Intrinsic Load

Intrinsic load in the cognitive load theory refers to the level of difficulty of the study material, task, or skill. Simply put, the more complex the information is, the more effort you’ll need to process it. Intrinsic load is determined by the inherent complexity and nature of information, meaning it cannot be eliminated.

For example, learning how to solve a calculus equation results in a higher intrinsic load than learning basic addition. This is because calculus equations involve more elements that need to be processed simultaneously than basic arithmetic operations.

Extraneous Load

In the cognitive load theory, extraneous load refers to the load resulting from the complex presentation of information. In other words, it describes the unnecessary effort you’d have to put in to understand poorly presented information. It can also result from a suboptimal learning environment, such as one full of distracting sounds.

Unlike intrinsic load, extraneous load can (and should) be reduced to a minimum. Otherwise, the working memory will focus primarily on the source of this load rather than the study material, leading to poor learning outcomes.

Teaching techniques, such as instructional sequencing, can help educators simplify complex information, making it more accessible and easier to digest. Creating a calm, distraction-free learning environment is also critical to minimizing extraneous load.

Germane Load

While intrinsic and extraneous load both describe sources of cognitive strain, germane load refers to the mental resources required to acquire, process, and automate schemata. In simple terms, it’s the mental effort involved in transferring and integrating new information into long-term memory.

Maximizing germane load is key to effective learning, as it supports deep information processing, organization, and integration.

One of the best ways to increase it is to reduce extraneous load, such as poor presentation or distractions. This way, you can allocate more working memory resources to acquiring information and developing long-lasting knowledge structures.

Now that you’re more familiar with the cognitive load theory, let’s see how it applies to different Enneagram personality types.

How Cognitive Load Affects Enneagram Types

Each Enneagram type has distinct core motivations and stress triggers that affect how they experience and respond to cognitive load. Understanding how the cognitive load theory applies to your personality type can help you optimize your learning experience, thereby improving your ability to acquire and retain new information.

Here’s a breakdown of how cognitive load typically affects the nine Enneagram types:

Enneagram Type 1

The Enneagram Type 1 is organized, disciplined, and principled. People with this personality type think logically, so they usually process complex information quite well, especially if it fits within their logical framework. Ones also value precision and accuracy, which makes them rather detail-oriented. Therefore, they typically have a thorough approach to learning.

Furthermore, Ones seek and appreciate structure, clarity, and order. As such, ambiguous instructions or disorganization can stress them out, increasing mental strain and extraneous load.

Enneagram Type 2

The Enneagram Type 2 is warm-hearted and empathetic. Since Twos value relationships above all else, they learn best when they feel emotionally engaged and connected to others.

However, these individuals are very sensitive to other people’s needs and feelings; they often go out of their way to help others, which can sometimes disrupt their learning process.

And while loud noises or unpleasant smells aren’t likely to faze them, tension and conflict in their learning environment can significantly increase the extraneous load for this personality type. Instead of focusing on study material, Twos may become preoccupied with resolving emotional discomfort.

Enneagram Type 3

The Enneagram Type 3 is adaptable, driven, and success-oriented. As such, most people with this personality type can learn virtually anything, regardless of the intrinsic load involved, as long as they set their minds on it.

Nonetheless, Threes value efficiency and are motivated by clear objectives and measurable outcomes. Therefore, unclear study goals and a lack of feedback are the most common sources of extraneous load for them. Rather than actively learning, they might wonder whether they’re performing well enough, which can considerably hinder their progress.

Enneagram Type 4

The Enneagram Type 4 is imaginative, introspective, and emotionally intense. Fours can typically handle high intrinsic load, but only if what they’re trying to learn feels meaningful to them. Because people with this personality type are typically creative and artistic, they find overly technical study materials quite off-putting.

Moreover, Fours may struggle to acquire and retain information when they feel uninspired or creatively restricted. For instance, those learning how to play an instrument may find it easier to pick up this new skill when given a chance to improvise rather than being forced to follow rigid instructions.

Enneagram Type 5

As the most cerebral Enneagram type, the Enneagram Five has a knack for effectively handling tasks with a high intrinsic load. Those belonging to this type excel at analytical thinking and complex reasoning, so their innately curious minds absorb knowledge like sponges.

That said, there’s one thing that can contribute to a high extraneous load for this personality type, and that’s being distracted by other people. Fives are independent and tend to be introverted, so they typically require solitude to process information efficiently. Unnecessary social interaction can quickly drain their energy and mental resources.

Enneagram Type 6

The Enneagram Type 6 is characterized by a strong sense of responsibility and a hardworking nature. As such, Sixes don’t shy away from tasks with a high intrinsic load; as people who value safety and predictability, they thrive in structured learning environments.

However, Sixes are prone to stress, self-doubt, and anxiety. As such, uncertainty and vague instructions can increase the extraneous load, derailing their progress. They may also feel an increase in cognitive load without clear guidance and feedback, as they often rely on others for security and reassurance.

Enneagram Type 7

The Enneagram Type 7 is spontaneous, enthusiastic, and curious. Sevens enjoy trying out and learning new things, but once the novelty wears off, they often struggle to stay motivated. When it comes to the cognitive load theory, this type can handle high intrinsic load quite effectively as long as they find the subject exciting.

That said, overly detailed tasks and repetitive study materials can increase the extraneous load for this type. Sevens also have a relatively short attention span, so they can get easily distracted by other people and environmental factors, such as noise.

Enneagram Type 8

Bold, assertive, and resilient, the Enneagram Type 8 handles high intrinsic load exceptionally well. This is primarily because people with this personality type embrace challenges, using them as motivational fuel instead of getting discouraged.

If there’s one thing that can increase the extraneous load for this type, however, it’s micromanagement. Eights can feel cognitively overloaded when others are attempting to control them, as a lack of autonomy makes them feel stressed out. They want learning to be an empowering, rather than a restrictive, experience.

Enneagram Type 9

The Enneagram Type 9 is calm and patient. Those belonging to it usually prefer to learn new things at a slower pace, as they aren’t particularly thrilled about change and novelty. While they can effectively handle high intrinsic load in quiet, peaceful learning environments, they may feel very overwhelmed when dealing with time pressure or complex multitasking.

Because Nines seek both internal and external peace and harmony, interpersonal conflict is one of the most common sources of extraneous load for this type. Disruptive learning environments can cause them to lean into procrastination or withdrawal, preventing them from acquiring new knowledge.

Since you’re now aware of how the cognitive load theory applies to different Enneagram types, it’s time to learn how you can reduce the extraneous load based on your personality test results.

Practical Tips to Reduce Cognitive Load Based on Enneagram Type

Below are some practical tips for each Enneagram type for reducing cognitive load:

• Enneagram 1. Since Ones value order, they can effectively limit extraneous load by keeping their learning environment tidy and well-organized.
• Enneagram 2. Twos can greatly reduce cognitive load by setting healthy personal boundaries with others, as this can help them avoid taking on other people’s problems and responsibilities.
• Enneagram 3. The key to decreasing cognitive load for Threes lies in focusing on absorbing information and truly understanding it instead of measuring performance.
• Enneagram 4. Fours can apply the cognitive load theory to optimize their learning process by choosing creative or inspiring study methods, such as visual aids.
• Enneagram 5. Fives should study in solitude to reduce extraneous load. However, sharing what they’ve learned with others can help them increase germane load, improving knowledge retention.
• Enneagram 6. Sixes can minimize cognitive load by choosing trustworthy mentors who can give them constructive feedback and reassurance. Furthermore, they should ask for clarification early to prevent uncertainty from building up and disrupting their learning process.
• Enneagram 7. Sevens should avoid distractions, such as phone notification sounds, to ensure their working memory is fully dedicated to study materials. Time management methods, such as the Pomodoro technique, tend to work well for this personality type.
• Enneagram 8. Studying independently or choosing mentors who respect their autonomy can help Eights reduce cognitive load.
• Enneagram 9. The most effective way for Nines to decrease extraneous load is to create a peaceful environment free from tension and other distractions. Having a flexible study routine can also help this type optimize their learning process, as they are rarely productive under pressure.

To minimize cognitive load, it’s best to apply strategies that align with both your core personality type and your Enneagram wing.

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Key Takeaways

Hopefully, you found our guide to the cognitive load theory not only interesting but also helpful in enhancing your learning process.

Before you leave, let’s summarize the key points we covered today:

• According to cognitive load theory, intrinsic and extraneous load should be managed or reduced to make learning more effective, whereas germane load should be maximized to improve information retention.
• Cognitive load affects each Enneagram type in a unique way; for example, disorganization may result in a cognitive overload for Types One and Six, whereas overly restrictive instructions are a common source of extraneous load for Types Four and Eight.
• The key to optimizing your learning experience lies in tailoring your approach to your core Enneagram type and wing.

What Is Cognitive Load Theory FAQ