32 Retrieval Activity 7
Activity #R7: Retrieval Practice – What do I study?
As of now you should have learned two main ideas about retrieval:
- The process of answering questions or testing yourself on knowledge improves memory!
- You must practice, EARLY and OFTEN (no cramming)!
See this YouTube Video from one of my former students to summarize these important points before moving on:
However, just as important about these two main ideas is what you are studying! Remember, many students’ go-to methods of what to study is to read and re-read their textbooks or notes.
This will not help.
Retrieval practice can come in the form of the following:
- Quiz questions you or your instructor create before a test
- Short summaries you can ask yourself questions about
- Quizzing apps like Quizlet or resources from your textbook that provide practice questions
- Note cards with ELABORATED detail or concept maps, images, drawings that you can use to test yourself
Once you have materials to use, then the key is to break up the to-be-learned material into short study sessions. During these sessions, you need to be active in your learning. Be sure you do not lazily resort to reading information. The key is to question.
Sort information into piles or sections that indicate what you know and what you don’t.
Sort information by areas you need more information on. When you begin studying early you can take advantage of asking your instructor for help or look up the information.
There are many variations that RETRIEVAL practice can take on. What should change, and here is the toughest part, is your MINDSET about studying. Some might find they can easily practice material on their own and yet others may rely on working with friends to study. If you do this be careful that you don’t mistake your friend knowing the material though for your own understanding! It is also possible that you will have educators who haven’t learned about the benefit of retrieval practice. Many teachers are receiving training too, just like you, on the science of learning and some are understanding how memory and attention work for the first time. If you are in a class in which the educator doesn’t give you many opportunities to show what you know, you can take the advice to practice retrieval into your own hands. Testing and quizzing yourself in between bigger tests may seem like it isn’t your responsibility; however, remember your motivation. It can be up to you to ensure you learn information for the long-term!
