Retrieval practice learning strategies

Summary

This final episode in the series on learning strategies focuses on retrieval practices, the third and final strategy after spacing and interleaving. Retrieval practices involve recalling knowledge from memory without the aid of learning materials, which helps to form concrete pathways to long-term memory and promotes a deeper understanding. Mrs. Kelly emphasizes the importance of patience and hard work, as these techniques can be challenging and may initially give a false sense of progress. She introduces five retrieval techniques: questioning, recall, flashcards, the Leetner system, and the study buddy system. These methods are designed to be used within a spacing schedule and should involve reviewing past as well as recent learning. The episode concludes with a reminder that retrieval practices should be combined with interleaving and spacing to ensure a comprehensive and connected memory of the learning material.

Takeaways

• 📚 Retrieval practices are a learning strategy where students recall knowledge from memory without the aid of learning materials.
• 🔄 Retrieval practices should be paired with spacing and interleaving techniques for better learning outcomes.
• ❌ Avoid the illusion of memory by not just reviewing, rehearsing, or repeating; instead, focus on actual memory retrieval.
• 💡 Memory retrieval techniques create concrete pathways to long-term memory, promoting a deeper understanding.
• 🕒 Retrieval techniques require patience and time, and may initially feel like no progress is being made.
• 🔑 Actual memory is the goal, not just familiarity with the material.
• 🤔 Five retrieval techniques introduced: questioning, recall it all, flashcards, Leetner system, and study buddy system.
• 📝 Questioning involves answering questions from memory and checking for accuracy, which can take various forms.
• 🔁 Use retrieval techniques as part of a spacing schedule, ensuring past learning is retrieved, not just recent.
• 👥 The study buddy system involves partnering with someone to test and teach each other, enhancing the learning process.
• 📈 Leetner system combines retrieval and spacing with specific review timings and a system of moving cards between boxes based on performance.
• 📱 Electronic apps like Anki, RemNote, and Quizlet can facilitate the Leetner system, but physical flashcards can be just as effective.

Q & A

What is the main focus of the final episode in the series on learning strategies?

The main focus of the final episode is to introduce and explain retrieval practices, the third and final learning strategy that students will be looking at.

How does retrieval practice differ from review, rehearsal, or repetition techniques?

Retrieval practice differs as it involves retrieving knowledge from memory without the aid of any learning materials, which can help avoid the illusion of memory and promote actual long-term memory retention.

What are the potential pitfalls of review, rehearsal, or repetition techniques?

These techniques can lead to familiarity with the materials and the development of the illusion of memory, where students may feel they have learned the content without actually having it firmly stored in long-term memory.

Why is it important to be patient and work hard when implementing retrieval techniques?

Retrieval techniques can be difficult to implement and may make students feel like they are not making progress. However, patience and hard work are necessary to see the results and to build actual memory rather than the illusion of memory.

What are the five retrieval techniques that Mrs. Kelly plans to teach?

The five retrieval techniques are: 1) Questioning, 2) Recall it all, 3) Flashcards, 4) Leetner system, and 5) Study buddy system.

How does the questioning retrieval technique work?

Questioning involves answering question sets by yourself, without any assistance, and then checking for accuracy. This can be done using various forms of questions such as short questions, mini or long mocks quizzes, or multiple-choice questions.

What is the purpose of the 'Recall it all' technique?

The 'Recall it all' technique involves writing down or mapping out everything you know about a topic, then referring back to your learning materials to identify what you have missed. This helps in creating a more comprehensive understanding of the topic.

What is the Leetner system and how does it work?

The Leetner system is a combination of retrieval and spacing practices. It involves creating flashcards with a question or definition on one side and the answer on the other. Cards are reviewed at specific intervals (daily, every third day, weekly, fortnightly, and monthly) and are moved through boxes based on whether they are answered correctly or not.

How can the study buddy system assist in learning?

The study buddy system involves finding a partner to work with, where both individuals can test and teach each other. This interactive approach enhances learning by providing different perspectives and making the process more enjoyable.

What is the advice given for using retrieval practices effectively?

Retrieval practices should be used alongside interleaving and spacing techniques to ensure a broad, deep, and connected memory of the learning material.

What is the next topic that will be covered in the series?

The next topic in the series will be about developing a growth mindset.

What is the importance of interleaving and spacing in the context of learning strategies?

Interleaving and spacing are important as they help distribute the learning process over time, which can enhance memory retention and understanding of the material.