How does Toru Sato define cognitive load?

Cognitive load, as defined by Toru Sato, refers to the total amount of mental effort utilized when processing information in working memory. This concept emphasizes the limitations of our working memory capacity and how it affects our ability to learn and problem-solve. When cognitive load is high, it can hinder performance because the brain struggles to process and retain information effectively.

In learning environments, understanding cognitive load is crucial; educators must design materials and instructional strategies that manage cognitive load to optimize learning outcomes. By focusing on how much mental effort is required, it becomes clear that effective teaching should involve balancing information complexity with the learner's capacity to absorb and understand that information.

The other choices do not align with this specific definition. For instance, the total amount of information absorbed from the environment does not account for the processing effort involved, while the resources allocated to multitasking relates more to attention management than cognitive load itself. Measurement of brain activity during tasks pertains to physiological aspects rather than the conceptual understanding of cognitive load.