Claims

ACT-R theory by John Anderson explains learning through 'knowledge compilation'—the process of converting individual facts into higher-level patterns that can be generalized and applied in new contexts—and Anderson's theory suggests this compilation requires repeated exposure, active use, and variety of contexts, not just reading.

When cognitive demand is high, metacognition becomes difficult—it's hard to monitor your own understanding, plan your next steps, and reflect on learning while also thinking hard about the material itself.