Reflecting on great teaching
INTRODUCTION
Understanding the role of memory in the learning process is essential for all educators. It is important for those planning and designing lessons to be aware of the limitations of working memory and recognise how regular retrieval practice can strengthen long-term memory.
Retrieval practice involves recalling already-learned information from long- term memory to make that learned information easier and quicker to retrieve in the future. You can read our eBook on memory and learning here to find out more about working memory and the cognitive systems of learning.
Retrieval practice is a strategy supported by evidence and can be used to enhance learning and progress, both inside and outside of the classroom. The benefits of retrieval practice for long-term learning are among the most secure findings in educational psychology (Brown et al., 2014); therefore it is not surprising that many schools have enthusiastically embraced retrieval practice.Retrieval practice is not considered to be a formal assessment strategy because the emphasis should be on regular low-stakes retrieval practice conducted to support learning, not measure it.
