What is Retrieval Practice

This chapter discusses ways to practice retrieval and how to support those activities with three education technologies. Retrieval practice, in which the learner attempts to recall information from memory, is a research-proven strategy for teachers and students to improve long-term retention of learning. However, research in the United States shows that many students mistakenly believe that rereading is a more effective study practice than retrieval and that self-testing is only useful for assessing their learning progress. Teachers can model retrieval practice strategies while gradually scaffolding students towards independent use of these strategies through guided practice and feedback. The ultimate goal is for students to independently employ retrieval practice when they encounter new learning environments. The authors recommend a strategy for facilitating retrieval practice with educational technologies such as Quizlet, Popplet, and Google Docs, each of which allows teachers and students to perform, share, and collaborate on retrieval tasks.