Redundancy Effect
Extra information that repeats what's already clear wastes mental capacity.
Evidence: well established. We label every concept honestly, and say so when it's a teaching model. How we rate evidence.
Shrink Definition
The redundancy effect is when adding extra, unnecessary information hurts learning instead of helping. Narrating text that's already on screen word for word, or over-explaining a clear diagram, forces learners to process the same thing twice. More information isn't always better, and redundancy wastes limited mental capacity. Clear instruction cuts what's not needed.
Plain language
Adding unnecessary, redundant information hurts rather than helps learning.
Shrink Insight
More explanation can subtract from understanding.
Why it matters
It guides instruction to cut redundant material that overloads learners. It shows that less can be more in teaching.
Common misunderstanding
People think adding more explanation always helps learners. Repeating information that's already clear can overload and hinder learning.
Shrink Perspective
Sometimes the kindest thing you can add is nothing.
Shrink Reflection
Where does my explaining repeat what's already clear?
Shrink Step
When explaining, cut information that repeats what's already clear.
Shrink Minute
Notice a slide or lesson that repeated itself and lost you.
Shrink Takeaway
Cut the redundant to aid learning.
Medical boundary
This concept is educational and shouldn't be used to self-diagnose. It doesn't replace care from a licensed clinician. Symptoms, medication, and treatment decisions should be discussed with a qualified professional, and emergency symptoms require emergency care.
Evidence summary
A well-supported finding in cognitive load and multimedia learning research.
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