Cognitive ergonomics is at the heart of designing learning environments, educational tools, strategies and curricula that optimise how individuals process information, particularly benefiting those with diverse learning needs.  It focuses on tailoring teaching methods to match students' cognitive abilities, ensuring that information presentation and task structures support their unique cognitive processes. 

 

Key features of Cognitive Ergonomics include:

 

• Reduction of Cognitive Load

• Making the most of Cognitive Strengths

• Differentiation

 

Learning without Cognitive Ergonomics can result in: 

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• Overwhelm

• Anxiety

• Stress

• Mental fatigue

• Difficulty in processing information 

• Difficulty retaining information 

• Increased errors and inaccuracies

• Reduced learning pace

• Reduced motivation and engagement

• Lack of contextual relevance

• One-size-fits-all approaches

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To address these challenges and improve learning outcomes:

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• Minimise distractions 

• Simplify language used

• Align learning experiences with how the human mind naturally processes information 

• Use visuals

• Offer interactive tasks 

• Provide personalised assessments 

• Align learning with real-world applications 

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By applying cognitive ergonomics principles, educational tools and curricula are designed to be intuitive, and better aligned with students' cognitive skills. This approach removes barriers and creates a more supportive learning environment for students with ADHD, autism, dyslexia, intellectual disabilities and other diverse needs.

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