Beneath the surface of cognitive science
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Working memory, cognitive load, dual coding, spaced retrieval….the language and theory of cognitive science and its application to teaching and learning in schools is high profile at the current time, and justifiably so. The EEF is a very useful starting point for schools looking for comprehensive, yet accessible, guidance and support. This Spotlight summarises the range of materials that are available, in a variety of formats.
First, there is the summary poster which introduces and explains key terms and also includes the useful QR code which will take you straight to the full evidence review of Cognitive Science approaches in the classroom.
This document sets out in a very accessible form the theory behind 7 key aspects of cognitive science:
- Spaced learning
- Interleaving
- Retrieval practice
- Managing cognitive load
- Working with schemas
- Multimedia learning (including dual coding)
- Embodied learning
It then relates each to teachers’ practice through exemplified strategies and guidance on implementation.
This core document is further supported by a pair of short ‘explainer’ animations which explain the core theories of Cognitive Load and The Processes of Memory in 4 and 3 minutes respectively. These can be found here:
- Cognitive Load Theory: A brief explainer (youtube.com)
- The Processes of Memory: A brief explainer (youtube.com)
Further guidance on classroom implementation is provided within the Voices from the classroom video blog Supporting Working memory in the Primary Classroom, in which a primary teacher talks about the implications for planning, and structuring lessons and sequences of lessons.
But of course, “It’s not just for the kids” - as the article with that title from the Essex Research School demonstrates. In this engaging article, Kate Alliston, Director of Essex Research School, reflects on how one school used metacognition to get the most out of their most recent Professional Development session.
RS Network | Cognitive Science - not just for the kids! (researchschool.org.uk)
And we all know that the development of sustained pedagogical practice takes time. That is why an article in the Chartered College’s Impact magazine Effective pedagogy and applying research in practice from September 2023 is a beneficial read, as it documents Westerhope Primary School’s implementation journey, using the EEF and other materials. It also includes a very useful reading list for those who still want to know more!