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Concept: Retrieval Practice

1. The Snapshot​

The act of recalling facts, concepts, or events from memory rather than reviewing them from a source.

2. The Description​

Retrieval is the primary engine of learning. It forces the brain to "re-trace" the neural pathways to the memory, strengthening them in the process. It is not just a way to measure what you know (testing), but a way to build what you know (studying).

3. Author Quotes​

"Retrieval practice—recalling facts or concepts or events from memory—is a more effective learning strategy than review by rereading." (p. 3)

4. Defining Features​

  • Active Recall: Forcing the brain to pull information "out" instead of putting it "in."
  • Neural Strengthening: Each act of retrieval strengthens the neural pathways and slows down forgetting.
  • Feedback Loop: It immediately reveals what you don't know (fighting the Illusion of Mastery).

5. The Boundary​

  • It is NOT Testing: While tests are a form of retrieval, Retrieval Practice is a learning tool, not just an assessment of what you've already learned.
  • It is NOT Re-reading: Re-reading is passive input; Retrieval is active output.

6. The Prototype​

Using flashcards, but with a strict rule: you must speak the answer aloud before flipping the card. If you flip the card and say "Oh yeah, I knew that," you are falling for the Illusion of Mastery.

7. Helpful Info​

Retrieval practice works best when spaced out. "Massed" retrieval (cramming) is less effective. The effort of retrieving something that is slightly forgotten (spaced retrieval) produces the strongest memories.

8. The Swap Test​

"The most efficient way to achieve Learning is to replace passive reading with frequent sessions of Retrieval Practice."

9. Source Reference​

make_it_stick/pages/page_017.txt

🧠 Pedagogical Tracking​

MilestoneStatusDateLesson RefNotes
Introduced in Lesson⚪
Active Recall #1⚪
1-Day Review⚪
1-Week Review⚪
1-Month Review⚪