Retrieval Practice Guide-Aidan Neimeth
What is it?
A strategy in which calling information to mind subsequently enhances and boosts learning.
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Think of retrieval
as a learning
strategy, not an
assessment tool.
by trying to recall information, we exercise or strengthen our memory, and we can also identify gaps in our learning
Why does
it improve learning?
when information comes to mind easily and feels fluent, it’s easy to forget. In other words, just because we learn something quickly and easily does not guarantee we’ll remember it.
Just like exercise, learning works the same way: “no pain, no gain.”
The more difficult the retrieval practice, the better it is for long-term learning. For instance, recalling an answer to a science question improves learning to a greater extent than looking up the answer in a textbook. And having to actually recall and write down an answer to a flashcard improves learning more than thinking that you know the answer and flipping the card over prematurely.
Does retrieval
improve more than just memorization?
Improves students’ organization of knowledge
Improves students’ transfer of knowledge to new concepts
Improves students’ complex thinking and application skills
How do I
implement
retrieval
practice?
Bell work or exit tickets
Page protectors with dry erase markers
Clickers or colored index cards
What are potential
challenges if I
implement retrieval
practice?
Do I need to change my style of teaching?
If I spend time using retrieval practice, I can’t cover as much material?
Do I need to change my textbook?
No! Retrieval practice works with any textbook materials, especially those that come with practice questions
No! You can keep your style of teaching exactly the same. We simply suggest that you insert retrieval practice activities after your lessons to improve students’ learning and metacognition
Retrieval practice doesn’t take more classroom time – it involves using classroom time more effectively.