iRecall Journal
Vol. 4 No. 1 (2026): iRecall Journal: An Indonesian Journal for Language Learning and Teaching

Content English integrated mathematics learning with reduced split attention: a cognitive load approach

Iskandar Iskandar (SMA Negeri 1 Puruk Cahu, Indonesia)
Metria Dicky Putra (English Department. Universitas Negeri Yogyakarta, Indonesia)
cAmon Bernabas Tenis (cFaculty of Cultural Sciences, Gadjah Mada University, Indonesia)



Article Info

Publish Date
30 Jun 2026

Abstract

Integrating English into mathematics learning may increase students’ cognitive load, particularly when instructional materials require learners to divide their attention between multiple sources of information. Based on Cognitive Load Theory, instructional materials designed using Reduced Split Attention are expected to minimize unnecessary cognitive processing. This study aimed to reduce students’ cognitive load through the implementation of Content and English Integrated Mathematics Learning with Reduced Split Attention. This study employed Classroom Action Research conducted in two cycles consisting of planning, action, observation, and reflection stages. The participants were eleventh-grade students in a public senior high school. Data were collected using a mental effort rating scale to measure students’ cognitive load during mathematics learning. The data were analyzed descriptively by comparing cognitive load scores in the pre-cycle, Cycle I, and Cycle II. The results showed a consistent decrease in students’ cognitive load across the three stages. The mean cognitive load score in the pre-cycle was 6.10, which decreased to 4.35 in Cycle I and further decreased to 2.95 in Cycle II. The reduction in cognitive load indicates that the implementation of Reduced Split Attention successfully minimized unnecessary cognitive processing. Improvements made in Cycle II, including clearer integration of formulas, explanations, and English terminology, further reduced students’ mental effort during learning. These findings indicate that Content and English Integrated Mathematics Learning with Reduced Split Attention effectively reduces students’ cognitive load. The results suggest that well-integrated instructional materials play an important role in supporting cognitively efficient mathematics learning.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

irecalljournal

Publisher

Subject

Education Languange, Linguistic, Communication & Media Social Sciences Other

Description

iRecall Journal: An Indonesian Journal for Language Learning and Teaching is a biannual peer-reviewed publication on language education attracting an international audience (Online ISSN 3025-938X). It accepts empirical research, book reviews, and conceptual papers. Based in Jombang, Indonesia, this ...