Monday, September 3, 2012

What Study Strategy is the Best?

Guess what?  The least popular study strategy is the most effective.  This article summarizes research done at the Memory Lab at Washington University in St. Louis.  http://learning lab.psych.purdue.edu/downloads/2012_Karpicke_Smith_JML.pdf

The most common way to study was to reread material but was not the most effective as a study strategy. Students who self-tested or quizzed did better.  "Tests" have gotten a bad rap, but as a form of frequent retrieval as a study strategy it is the most effective for long term learning. 
Those of you who are teaching SRSS classes for Title I students, do you include quizzing in your repertoire?  Try it with students who are having a big test coming up.

Research Finds Students Short on Study Savvy.  Sarah Sparks. 6.6.12. Education Week.
http://www.edweek.org/ew/articles/2012/06/06/33study.h31.html?tkn=ULMFNK6%2BfY2FH18S2XKNfGUT6QxESg2q3MRd&cmp=ENL-EU-NEWS1

1 comment:

  1. Yes! I have been using the webesite, Quizlet, with my students for awhile! They are able to create their own flashcards (which helps them short which information is/is not important), and then play "Games" and take tests on that information! Since it is also available as an application on a smart phone, kids enjoy the opportunity to study by using their phones on the bus, in the car, or walking to/from school!

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