Rule #5: Repeat to Remember

Back when I was a doctoral candidate (never defended dissertation, a long story for another time) I studied constructivism. The dissertation was based on this theory. Sections of chapter 5 remind me of my studies. “The more handles on the door, the more access points were available for entrance” (pg 114). We are more apt to remember things if they are familiar to us or, can relate, connect to what we already know. We build knowledge and memory based on what we have experienced. Our sensory experiences are also connected to what we know. Familiar scents and sounds can help trigger a memory.

John Median reports on research that shows the senses, emotions, familiarity and repetition all play a part in creating short term memory and thus leading to long term memories. Many educators already put much of this into play in our classrooms. We have students repeat and interact with content many times. We provide multiple examples of the concept and help students build connections to prior knowledge and experience.

I found this chapter reinforcing much of what I studied during my graduate studies. It triggered a lot of memories for me, learning I had forgotten.