Bot or Not? Differences in Cognitive Load Between Human- and Chatbot-Led Post-Simulation Debriefings
Abstract
Understanding how different debriefing formats impact learner’s cognitive load is crucial for designing effective post-simulation reflection activities. This paper examines cognitive load after post-simulation debriefings facilitated either by a human instructor or a generative AI Chatbot. In a controlled study with N = 45 educational science students, 23 participants engaged in a lecturer-facilitated debriefing, while 22 completed a chatbot-guided session. Cognitive load was assessed across intrinsic, extraneous, and germane dimensions. Results revealed no statistically significant differences between the two debriefing methods. Future research should examine AI-led debriefings with larger samples and employ complementary measures of cognitive load to provide a more comprehensive understanding.
Fields of Study & Subjects
AI in Service Interactions
Simulation-Based Education in Healthcare
Intelligent Tutoring Systems and Adaptive Learning
Publication details
- Journal / source
- Education Sciences
- Publisher
- MDPI AG
- Volume
- 16
- Issue
- 2
- Pages
- 255–255
- Publication date
- 6 February 2026
- Language
- EN