What is retrieval practice?

Retrieval practice is the act of recalling previously learned information. A popular studying technique is to re-read notes or to look over lecture slides, but these practices do not help students call upon information when they need it. Simply retrieving trivia facts or taking time after class to recall any information they can helps improve long-term learning and memory.

How can you use retrieval practice in your course?

Retrieval practice can be incorporated into a course in many ways. If the course has a study guide or study tips, be sure to recommend that students spend time quizzing themselves or others on the material, noting that spaced practice over time will lead to better recall and learning.

During a lecture or discussion, ask students what they remember from a previous lesson. This practice was done by Dr. Kelli Taeger in HHP 1100. At the midway point of her lectures, she would pause and ask students a question from the previous lecture as a way to encourage students to practice retrieving things they learned. It also supports metacognition as students reflect on what they do or do not know about the course material.

Another easy way to add retrieval practice is to end class with a brain dump activity. Ask students to write down everything they learned during class that day, focusing on main topics and ideas. This will help students recall what was covered in class that day before they leave the room, making it more likely they will remember the content when they go to study.

What results can you expect from incorporating retrieval practice into your course?

Research on retrieval practice suggests it consistently benefits students learning across numerous content areas. Demonstrating the skill in class can lead to better study habits and performance on exams.

For further reading, find more information here:

Retrieval Practice Consistently Benefits Student Learning: a Systematic Review of Applied Research in Schools and Classrooms

Who can help if you’re interested in incorporating varied practice into your course?

If you would like to explore how you could use this in your course, please reach out to the Center for Teaching for assistance and guidance on how best to implement these activities.