Integrating Cognitive Load and Embodied Cognition Theories Through Representations as ... - arXiv
arxiv.org
A new paper argues that how we physically interact with representations — diagrams, gestures, notes — is the missing bridge between two rival theories of how humans learn.
Cognitive Load TheoryEmbodied CognitionHierarchical Predictive ProcessingDynamical Systems Theory
Theory Briefing
- The paper proposes a six-node open-systems architecture to unify Cognitive Load Theory and Embodied Cognition, two long-competing learning frameworks.
- Dynamical systems theory is used to show that learning emerges from real-time feedback loops between body, environment, and mind — not just mental storage.
- Hierarchical predictive processing reframes representations as active predictions the brain tests through physical interaction, not passive information containers.