Testing is learning
Pulling information out strengthens memory more than putting it in again. Low-stakes, frequent, feedback-rich.
Journey dashboard
Day 13 / 60Week 2 · Learning ScienceLesson
Retrieval practice
Learning goal
Design retrieval into a module instead of bolting on a final quiz.
Estimated time
25 minutes · self-paced
Warm-up
When did you last learn something by being tested on it?
Main lesson
Formats that work
diagramFree recall, short answer, scenario decisions, 'explain to a colleague', flashcards.
- Ask before you tell
- One retrieval moment every 5–7 minutes
- Feedback that explains, not just 'incorrect'
Beyond the quiz
exampleRetrieval also happens through job aids that prompt recall and through manager check-ins after the course.
Examples from practice
- — Opening each module with 3 questions from the previous one.
Interactive quiz
Reflection
How could you add one retrieval moment to a course you already know?
Daily challenge
Write 5 retrieval questions with explanatory feedback for yesterday's topic.
Portfolio task
Add a 'Retrieval question bank' artefact to your portfolio.
AI design tools
Ten assistants for this lesson
AI Mentor
Instructional design questions only
Hi! I'm your ID Mentor. Ask me anything about retrieval practice — or instructional design in general.