Uploaded February 2026 | Updated September 2026, 1 week ago
Cognitive overload can create a bottleneck during math lessons, but there are simple strategies to clear up students’ brain space for complex problem-solving.
Working memory is critical for tackling difficult math problems, but it is finite and can be overburdened quickly, making it hard for students to parse out details and steps when working through lessons. But teachers can lower the pressure on working memory in a variety of research-backed ways, allowing students to simplify math problems so that the most important parts can be isolated and absorbed more easily.
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#brainbasedlearning #research #math #teachingstrategies #workingmemory
© 2026 George Lucas Educational Foundation
Cognitive overload can create a bottleneck during math lessons, but there are simple strategies to clear up students’ brain space for complex problem-solving.
Working memory is critical for tackling difficult math problems, but it is finite and can be overburdened quickly, making it hard for students to parse out details and steps when working through lessons. But teachers can lower the pressure on working memory in a variety of research-backed ways, allowing students to simplify math problems so that the most important parts can be isolated and absorbed more easily.
For more ideas for brain-based learning, visit: edutopia.org/topic/brain-based-learning
Join the Edutopia community today to get articles, videos, and more delivered via email every Wednesday—all tailored to you and your unique role: edut.to/3wEVHUh
*Follow us here:*
Official Website: https://edutopia.org
YouTube: youtube.com/c/edutopia
Facebook: facebook.com/edutopia
Instagram: instagram.com/edutopia
BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/edutopia.org
#brainbasedlearning #research #math #teachingstrategies #workingmemory
© 2026 George Lucas Educational Foundation
