Implementing the Study Strategy – Retrieval Practice

QUESTION

This is the extra credit discussion board for Exam 2 focused on Chapters 6-10. You can earn up to 5 extra credit points by participating in this board.

1. Select one of the Learning Scentist’s 6 study strategies except concrete examples . Learn about the study strategy by either watching a video OR reading about it. Go to the “Study Tips! Extra Credit” area of Blackboard (click on the left panel) for more information about the study strategies.
2. Use this strategy for a least 1-2 weeks while you are studying for this course.
3. After using the strategy, write a discussion board post and include the following to earn up to 4 extra credit points. Please write your post in paragraph form with complete sentences.
   1. Name and explain the study strategy you used in your own words. 
   2. Describe how you used the study strategy and/or discuss a specific example of using the strategy. 
   3. When did you start using this study strategy and how long did you use it?
   4. Was this strategy helpful for you? Explain why or why not?
   5. What could you do differently next time?
4. Provide a thoughtful response to at least one classmate’s discussion board post to earn 1 extra credit point. you repsone must be in sentences.Your response must be more than “Great job” or “I agree/I used the same strategy.”

You must complete all of your posts by the due date (see course calendar; the study tips extra credit is always due on the same day as the corresponding exam).

If you decide to participate in this extra credit discussion board for Exam 3, you must select a different study strategy to try!

ANSWER

Implementing the Study Strategy – Retrieval Practice

I chose to implement the study strategy of “Retrieval Practice” for the extra credit discussion board. Retrieval practice is a learning technique that involves actively recalling information from memory rather than passively reviewing notes or textbooks. It’s about testing yourself on the material you’re trying to learn.

I started using retrieval practice about two weeks ago, primarily when preparing for my upcoming Exam 2. Instead of re-reading the chapters and my notes, I created flashcards and quiz questions based on the key concepts and topics covered in Chapters 6-10. I would attempt to answer these questions without referring to any materials. I also used the practice quizzes provided in the course materials to self-test my knowledge.

In my experience, retrieval practice has been incredibly helpful. It forced me to actively engage with the material and identify the areas where I needed more review. Initially, I found that I couldn’t answer some questions correctly, but through repetition and practice, I improved my retention and understanding of the subjects. This strategy made me more aware of my strengths and weaknesses in the course material.

What I could do differently next time is to start implementing retrieval practice earlier in my study routine, ideally from the beginning of the course. This way, I can continuously reinforce my understanding of the content rather than trying to catch up on material I might not have thoroughly grasped. Consistent practice throughout the semester might lead to even better results.

Response to Classmate

I noticed that you also tried retrieval practice as your study strategy. It’s great to see that you found it helpful as well. I agree that actively engaging with the material and testing your knowledge really makes a difference in how well you retain information. Did you also use flashcards or some specific method to implement retrieval practice? And do you think you’ll continue using this strategy in future courses? It’s always interesting to hear about different experiences with study techniques.