How Memory Can Impact Learning
An Advo-Kids Resource
What is Memory?
Memory is the ability to store and recall information. Memory includes long-term, short-term and working memory.
Long-term memory: The ability to take and store a variety of information (ideas, names, concepts) in one’s mind, then later retrieve it quickly and easily using association.
Short-term memory: The ability to recall information after a few seconds.
Working memory: Ability to temporarily store and perform a set of cognitive operations on information that requires divided attention and the management of limited capacity of short-term memory. It is a conscious process that involves the manipulation of information. Working Memory is one of the most fundamental process in learning. Through working memory one connects input to output, as well as prior knowledge to new information. It thus affects one’s ability to encode new information into long-term memory in all areas.
Short Term Memory
Areas of Impact:
- Difficulty remembering multi-step verbal directions
- Problems remembering a series of information
- Difficulty with the initial mastery of material
- Difficulty with vocabulary development
- Problems copying information
- Weaknesses in transferring information from source to source
- Difficulty answering questions directly from text
- Problems writing dictated information
Long-Term Memory
- Perform poorly when reviewing past material
- Perform poorly when asked to complete a variety of problems on several different concepts
- Can’t easily retrieve needed information from long-term memory
- Forgets steps in algorithms such as long division, and have a hard time when solving multi-step word problems
- Weaknesses in transferring information from source to source
- Have difficulties in matters related to time
- Might do well on daily quizzes but has difficulty passing chapter exams containing these materials.
- They understand new information in class but are uncertain how to proceed once they leave class.
Working Memory
- Difficulty following multi-step directions
- Failure to use strategies while studying
- Difficulty paraphrasing and summarizing information
- Difficulty with vocabulary development
Short-term Memory Strategies
- Deliver information in smaller units or portions
- Use multimodal presentation of information (visual, tactile, and auditory)
- Use a step approach to studying
- Use rehearsal strategies (e.g., rhymes, acronyms, anagrams, associations)
- Model re-telling, paraphrasing, and summarizing
- Use lists, notes, checklist, or memory plans
- Teach chunking strategies
- Allow the use of a number line or calculator
- Provide copies of notes and outlines for notes
- Write on tests or materials to eliminate transfer errors
- Use repetition of instruction and information
Long-term Memory Strategies
- Provide over-learning
- Provide review and repetition
- Provide immediate feedback
- Teach memory aids – Use rehearsal strategies (e.g., rhymes, acronyms, anagrams, associations)
- Provide a list of steps that will help organize behavior and facilitate recall
- Use lists, notes, checklists, or memory plans
- Teach chunking strategies
- Teach mnemonic strategies
- Provide multi-sensory learning
- Use visual, kinesthetic, vocal, and auditory channels, as appropriate
- Provide context and meaning based instruction
- Limit the number of new facts, words, and concepts in one session
Working Memory Strategies
- Provide a step-based plan to follow during multiple-step problem solving or procedures
- Verbalize and summarize while solving problems
- Teach use of a number line or calculator
- Use mnemonic techniques
- Provide visual model of multi-step problem
- Explicitly teach a problem solving model
- Use visual organizers
- Build sight word vocabulary
- During reading comprehension tasks, use active reading techniques such as underlining, using a highlighter, re-reading, marking important parts, writing on margins of books, using sticky notes while reading, reading to a tape recorder and listening to what was read
- Review prior knowledge before teaching new information
- Check for comprehension at strategic points
- Have students take turns making/asking questions and responding to questions about material being taught
- Use graphic organizers
- Model self-monitoring for comprehension
Contact Advo-Kids
Email: tvargas@posternockapell.com
Website: www.specailednj.com
Location: 400 North Church Street, Moorestown, NJ, USA
Phone: 856-642-6445