Why Students Forget and How Teachers Can Help K12 Ages 5-18
Why do students forget what they learn? Explore the science of memory and practical teacher strategies (retrieval practice, spacing, sleep) for ages 5-18.“Students forget because the brain naturally discards information it does not use. Forgetting happens most when learning is overloaded, passive, crammed, or never retrieved. Teachers can help by teaching in small steps, using regular retrieval practice, spacing and mixing review, teaching study skills, and supporting sleep and wellbeing.”-Every teacher knows the moment. We teach a lesson that goes well. Students nod, answer questions, and complete the task. Three weeks later we ask about the same idea and meet blank faces. The blankness may come with a cheerful shrug in a kindergarten classroom. It may come in a Grade 11 classroom with a sinking feeling and the words, “We never did this.”
