Retrieval-based learning, using tests for content review, frequently proves more effective for knowledge retention compared to alternative methods. Extensive research has explored this with older students, often in contrast to more passive techniques like rereading or note rewriting, typically focusing on vocabulary content, in non-classroom…

Example-based learning often uses a design in which learners first receive basic instructional explanations of new principles and concepts and then examples thereof. In this sequence, it is crucial that learners self-explain by using the content of the basic instructional explanations to elaborate on the examples. Typically, learners are not…

Participants tend to initiate immediate free recall (IFR) of short lists of words with the very first word on the list. Three experiments examined whether rehearsal is necessary for this recent finding. In Experiment 1, participants were presented with lists of between 2 and 12 words for IFR at a fast, medium, or slow rate, with and without…

I propose three "rethinks" to consider in recasting the ACRL Standards for information literacy for the coming decades. First, rethink the concept of information need. Second, rethink the notion that information literacy is composed of a set of abilities for "extracting information." Third, rethink the holistic process of…

Previous studies have demonstrated that making annotations can be a meaningful and useful learning method that promote metacognition and enhance learning achievement. A web-based annotation system, Virtual Pen (VPEN), which provides for the creation and review of annotations and homework solutions, has been developed to foster learning process…

More than a century of research shows that increasing the gap between study episodes using the same material can enhance retention, yet little is known about how this so-called distributed practice effect unfolds over nontrivial periods. In two three-session laboratory studies, we examined the effects of gap on retention of foreign vocabulary,…

More frequent use of properly spaced reviews and tests can dramatically improve classroom learning and retention. Research suggests that spaced repetitions can foster time-on-task, help students develop and sustain positive attitudes toward school and learning, and encourage highly constructive thinking and deeper understanding of the topic. (57…

Findings in this study do not demonstrate that factual review questions produce any generally facilitating effect on the learning of incidental information when compared to no question at all. (Author/JB)

Introduces the notetaking system for learning, designed to help high school and college students prepare for objective and essay tests. (RB)

Two experiments were performed with college students to study memory monitoring during the learning of word lists. Both experiments suggested that successful monitoring to decide which items were already encoded did not occur during presentation of material but was restricted to recall trials. (Author/BS)

High school students studied a brief history text, then either took a test on the passage, spent equivalent time reviewing, or went to an unrelated task. A test given two weeks later indicated that the test condition resulted in better retention than either the review or control conditions. (Author/GK)

Two experiments were performed to determine whether questions inserted after prose passages initiate reviews which facilitate retention of the information in memory. Results suggest that the backward review is not attributed to a retrieval phenomenon but to a strengthening of memory traces at the time of the probe. (Author/GK)

Four different methods for attending to a lecture were studied: listening, listening with an outline, note-taking, and note-taking with an outline. Each method was designed to influence the learner's level of processing and, therefore, to effect the encoding and retrieval of information from a lecture. In addition, the effects of no review or…

Two papers are included in this report. "Control and Feedback in the Environment of a Computer Tutor" investigates some control and feedback properties of a tutorial environment comprised of a student, his computer tutor, and the designer of the computer tutor. Three classes of computer tutor are described: rigid, generative, and knowledgeable.…