VIII. Principle 5: Retrieval Flashcards
Why do so many people stick with re-reading and review for study when it’s not that effective? (ultralearning)
Because humans are bad judges of whether they’re learning effectively or not.
When learning feels smooth and easy (such as re-reading), we think we’re getting on top of things. When it’s hard (free recall), we feel like we’re not getting anywhere.
In both instances, we’re usually wrong.
What is the impact of making retrieval practice more difficult when Ultralearning?
The harder the retrieval, the greater the learning, so long as the retrieval was successful.
Free recall tends to lead to better retention than cued recall. Cued recall is again better than recognition tests (multiple choice, for example).
When practicing retrieval for ultralearning, is it better to test immediately after learning something, or with a slight delay?
How come?
Better after a slight delay, which is long enough so the answers aren’t in mind when they need them.
This ties in with more difficult retrieval being more effective than easier retrieval. A slight delay can be a desired difficulty.
In ultralearning, when does difficulty become undesirable?
If the difficulty makes retrieval impossible.
E.g. learning something, and testing it again 6 months later.
In ultralearning, what is one approach to ensuring that you are using retrieval practice on things that actually matter?
Do direct practice, as this automatically will make you retrieve the things you need and ignore the things you don’t.
What are the limitations of only using direct practice to practice retrieval?
You can’t retrieve things that aren’t in your head when you need them.
Also, if you have a solution that already works, direct practice won’t force you to retrieve a better solution. Direct practice can fail to encourage retrieval of knowledge that is helpful but not essential.
In ultralearning, what are the 5 tactics for Retrieval practice?
- Flashcards
- Free recall
- Question-book method
- Self-generated challenges
- Closed-book learning
In ultralearning, what is the Question-book method?
Instead of taking regular notes, take notes in the form of questions, and then have a reference somewhere to check the answers easily when needed.
This means you can read over your notes and practice retrieval.
In ultralearning, how can you use the tactic of Self-generated Challenges to practice retrieval?
When you are studying and come across something you need to practice, formulate examples and challenges that you can solve later.
