Strengthening the Student Toolbox

Jennifer Brickey

CA—Curriculum and Assessment

CA--Assessment Strategies

CO--Overcoming Barriers

Dunlosky, J. (2013). Strengthening the student toolbox. American Educator, 37(3), 12

-21. Retrieved from

http://www.aft.org/newspubs/periodicals/ae/fall2013/dunlosky.cfm

Dunlosky presents his findings on the most useful studying strategies that boost student achievement. Contrary to many teachers’ beliefs, highlighting and rereading show minimal return in student achievement when compared to practice testing and distributed practice, according to the research. Dunlosky found that practice testing can help students “boost long-term memory” (p.14) and “make better decisions about what needs further practice and what does not” (p. 14). Practice tests allow students to assess what they know and what they don’t know about a topic so they can make sure to review the areas they are weakest; this is a way to receive instant feedback. The second best strategy Dunlosky discovered is distributed practice. This method encourages students to study or practice every day rather than cramming the night before an exam. By doing so, “students will retain knowledge and skills for a longer period of time” (p. 15).

This article shines light on study strategies that teachers may or may not use. When considering how curriculum is acquired and how it’s assessed, this article offers specific approaches that work, show promise, and fall flat. This is a useful tool for any teacher considering how to incorporate studying skills into his/her classroom.