Reading Time: 3 minutes Is problem-solving the key to unlocking better learning over memory recall? This research questions how engaging students in problem-solving rather than relying on memory recall can significantly enhance their retention and understanding … Why Problem-Solving Enhances Learning Jacoby’s research (1978) highlights a shift from rote memorisation to active problem-solving; today, we would use the phrase ..read more

Reading Time: 4 minutes Could your students benefit from having a memory palace? The Memory Palace is an adaptation of the ancient Greek method of loci, where students use a familiar environment to place and recall information systematically. Above is a photograph I took in Vietnam in 2010. It will forever remain in my episodic memory. Episodic memory is ..read more

Reading Time: 2 minutes How can retrieval practice shield students’ memory from stress? This peer-reviewed research explores how retrieval practice might be a key to enhancing memory resilience against stress in schools … This meta-analysis synthesises the effect of retrieval practices in classrooms; how actively recalling study material might defend against the usual decline in memory performance caused by ..read more

Reading Time: 2 minutes How can frequent testing transform student learning outcomes? This research explores the impact of frequent testing on student performance, offering insights on how strategic testing can enhance learning and retention … Recent studies conducted over four semesters at a college have explored the efficacy of different testing frequencies, the benefits of repeating test items, and ..read more

Reading Time: 2 minutes Should pupils be allowed to purchase vapes, and use them in school? Ask any headteacher across England; besides funding, vaping is likely to be one of their current headaches! No longer do students need to hide a ‘packet of fags’ or ‘light up’ in the toilets around the back of the sports hall; young people ..read more

Reading Time: 3 minutes Do practice quizzes help students learn without stress? Teachers who are up to speed with student mental health, pedagogy and working memory, will know that when anxiety is increased, retrieval weakens … What this looks like in the classroom is when a teacher surprises a student by asking them a question. In that two-second moment ..read more

Reading Time: 4 minutes What reasons would encourage more teachers to become school leaders? We have a teacher recruitment problem, but we also have a headteacher problem too. A report to the Education Select Committee in 2023 said we have the “highest number of vacancies” reported since 2010 and the highest working hours reported among headteachers. Now, I don’t for ..read more

Reading Time: 6 minutes How do authors design their book covers? I will publish my 12th book later this year. The general public will see the final book cover and will not know anything different. I wanted to share some insights about book design evolution and decisions made along the way … Here are the book designs I have ..read more

Reading Time: 2 minutes What is the current perception of formative assessment in the classroom? As part of my research to widen the debate on marking and feedback, I’ve been gathering data from teachers to learn more about the current gaps and challenges schools and teachers face with formative assessment. Ignoring questioning, over the last term, 122 teachers have ..read more

Reading Time: 2 minutes What is the best way to study? Exploring what impact different study techniques have on student exam scores and how teachers can guide students’ study habits for success. Research at the University of Wisconsin (Bartoszewski, 2015) explored the correlation between ten well-known study techniques (Dunloswky et al., 2013) and academic performance. The research tested how ..read more