ABSTRACT
The information structures and processes that underlie and drive evolution by natural selection bear a striking resemblance to the structures and processes that constitute human cognitive architecture (Sweller, 2003). The manner in which humans learn, solve problems, and create all have close analogues to descriptions of biological evolution. The relevant processes may be universal with human cognitive architecture having evolved to mimic the information processes of evolution by natural selection. Thus, evolution by natural selection has the dual functions of shaping human cognitive architecture and providing a template to understand that architecture. Because the processes of evolution by natural selection are well known, any analogy between biological evolution and human cognitive architecture can serve to reveal structures and processes relevant to human cognition that otherwise would remain obscure. Human cognitive architecture, in turn, may create both restrictions and opportunities for how learners can acquire information. The manner in which learners can acquire information provides a foundation for instructional design.
