ABSTRACT
Retrieval practice improves learning compared to re-reading the information, and even compared to other strategies that are thought by many to help learning, such as making a concept map with the written material people are studying right in front of people. Retrieval practice benefits learning in many different ways. Quite possibly the most surprising finding is that retrieval practice has a direct effect on learning. In addition to direct benefits, retrieval practice can also benefit learning indirectly. If the goal is longer-lasting, durable learning, then retrieval practice is a more effective learning strategy. Research on the benefits of test-taking suggests that when pressure to perform well on a test is increased, the learning benefits from retrieval during the tests can decrease. Knowing that scaffolding with concept maps helps students successfully retrieve information, the researchers completed one more experiment to compare the guided retrieval activity to a study-only control condition.
