7.12 Effective Study Strategies

Memory Improvement Strategies in Studying

General Overview

• Exploration of strategies derived from psychological research for improving studying.

• Focus on how to become more effective students using evidence-based techniques.

Testing Effect

• Definition: The testing effect refers to the cognitive phenomenon whereby incorporating practice tests into study routines enhances memory retention.

• Illustrated in a graph comparing effectiveness:

  • Memory Test Performance: The graph displays performance based on conditions:

  • Short-Term Memory Testing (5-minute delay)

  • Long-Term Memory Testing (7-day delay)

• Comparison of Techniques:

  • Blue Bar: Using only study sessions repeatedly (suboptimal for long-term retention).

  • White Bar: Three study sessions followed by one testing session (improvements noted).

  • Red Bar: One study session followed by three testing sessions (significant improvements in long-term memory).

• Key Insight: Testing improves your retrieval practice. Beneficial for gaining awareness of memory strengths and weaknesses, also allows adjusting study strategies based on outcomes.