Are the conditions of exam success as simple as these??🤔
- Remembering what has been taught
- Being able to recall effortlessly so as to ensure working memory is free / available to understand the question and apply knowledge to the problem
- Lots of practice answering exam questions
It could be argued that 1 and 2 are the same, but I think a distinction needs to be made to account for the steps required to remember and easily recall. I am referring to storage strength versus retrieval strength. Let me explain!
For exam success, both storage and retrieval strengths need to be developed. Strong storage ensures that the knowledge is in place and won’t decay easily. However, high retrieval strength is essential because it allows for quick, effortless recall, leaving more cognitive resources available in working memory to focus on understanding the question and doing all the mental gymnastics required while applying knowledge to solve problems.
So how do we ensure that our students not only remember what we teach them but can also retrieve that knowledge while keeping working memory free?
Spaced retrieval is the most effective technique to build both. By recalling information over spaced intervals, storage strength is increased, ensuring long-term retention. Additionally, repeated retrieval practice strengthens retrieval strength, making it easier to access information effortlessly when needed. This combination optimizes both remembering and recalling, setting students up for exam success.
Attempting exam-style practice questions is another critical component, but its effectiveness is greatly enhanced by immediate marking and feedback. When feedback is given right away, students can instantly correct their misunderstandings and reinforce the correct information while it’s still fresh. This accelerates learning and solidifies retrieval strength. In contrast, delayed feedback or none at all can result in students reinforcing errors or gaps in their knowledge, which weakens both storage and retrieval strength. Immediate feedback turns exam practice into a powerful tool for learning and memory development, making it far more effective than practicing alone.
Additionally, applying knowledge in varied contexts has a significant impact on retrieval strength. When students practice using information in different scenarios, it strengthens the mental pathways for accessing that information, making it easier to recall in unfamiliar or high-pressure situations. This approach not only enhances the flexibility of their knowledge but also improves their ability to adapt and solve problems effectively.
Teepee.ai supports these approaches by enabling teachers to implement automated and personalised spaced retrieval and set tasks that require students to answer exam questions covering one or more topics. This integration helps ensure that students receive the right balance of practice and feedback, optimizing their preparation and performance for exams.
