The Use of Chunking Technique combined with Writing is Thinking to Control Students Cognitive Load in Learning Human Reproductive System
Meirin Dwiningtyas Putri (a*), Adi Rahmat (b), Yayan Sanjaya (c)

a) Student of Biology Education, Indonesian Education University, Jl. Dr. Setiabudi No 229, Bandung 40154, Indonesia
*meirindwi[at]gmail.com
b) Biology Education, Indonesian Education University, Jl. Dr. Setiabudi No 229, Bandung 40154, Indonesia

Abstract

Cognitive load is related to working memory capacity which affects the cognitive processing system. This study aims to control the cognitive load of students by using chunking techniques combined with writing is thinking in learning the human reproductive system. The research was conducted at a Senior High Schools in Tasikmalaya City for the 2020/2021 academic year. The research subjects were 56 samples. The research method used is a quasi-experimental with posttest only control group design. Measurement of students^ cognitive load includes intrinsic cognitive load (ICL), extraneous cognitive load (ECL), and germane cognitive load (GCL) which is measured using an instrument in the form of a subjective rating scale questionnaire with a scale of 1 - 8. The results show that learning the human reproductive system uses chunking technique combined with writing is thinking obtained an average student^s ability to receive and process information of 38.4 (low ICL). For the average value of mental effort is 32.8 (low ECL) and the average value of cognitive load related to student learning outcomes is 73.7 (high GCL). Based on the results of statistical tests with the Mann Whitney two-mean difference test, it shows that there are significant differences in the ICL, ECL, and GCL components between the experimental group and the control group so that the use of chunking techniques combined with writing is thinking can control cognitive load. The chunking technique combined with writing is thinking is able to optimize working memory capacity by managing pieces of information and helping students construct knowledge by rewriting the information obtained using their own language.

Keywords: cognitive load, extraneous cognitive load, intrinsic cognitive load, germane cognitive load, chunking technique, writing is thinking

Topic: Biology Education