Cognitive Load and Learning Disorientation in Arabic: a Phenomenological Study of Madrasah Tsanawiyah Students

Zilvi Shobrina; Chilma Asma Munaya; Naila Qurrotul Aini; Sema Thanitia Nurul Hijja

doi:10.15575/ta.v5i2.56254

Authors

Zilvi Shobrina Universitas Islam Negeri Sunan Kalijaga Yogyakarta, Indonesia
Chilma Asma Munaya Universitas Islam Negeri Sunan Kalijaga Yogyakarta, Indonesia
Naila Qurrotul Aini Universitas Islam Negeri Sunan Kalijaga Yogyakarta, Indonesia
Sema Thanitia Nurul Hijja Al-Azhar University Cairo, Egypt

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.15575/ta.v5i2.56254

Keywords:

Kata kunci : Cognitive Overload; Pembelajaran Bahasa Arab; Studi Fenomenologis

Abstract

The complexity of language structures, the abundance of new vocabulary, and the density of instructional materials may increase the demands of learning Arabic. This study aims to describe students’ experiences of learning difficulties from the perspective of Cognitive Load Theory (CLT). The study used a qualitative phenomenological approach following Moustakas’s procedures, with modifications from the Stevick–Colaizzi–Keen method. Data were collected through in-depth interviews with 11 students aged 12–15 years, classroom observations, and documentation. The findings revealed five patterns of experience: difficulties in understanding learning materials; difficulties in remembering vocabulary (mufradāt) and previously learned material; learning disorientation when students did not understand the material; emotional responses, including stress, anxiety, tension, and boredom; and efforts to overcome learning difficulties through material review and by seeking assistance from teachers or peers. From a CLT perspective, these findings suggest that students perceive demands associated with information processing. However, cognitive load was not measured directly, and causal relationships were not tested. Material segmentation, step-by-step examples, visual support, and guided assistance may serve as pedagogical implications that warrant further investigation in future research.

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