Learning from explaining: Does it matter if mom is listening?

Abstract

The goal of the current study was to examine whether explaining to another person improves learning and transfer. In the study, 4- and 5-year-olds ( N = 54) solved multiple classification problems, received accuracy feedback, and were prompted to explain the correct solutions to their moms, to explain the correct solutions to themselves, or to repeat the solutions. Generating explanations (to selves or moms) improved problem-solving accuracy at posttest, and explaining to mom led to the greatest problem-solving transfer. The study indicates that explanation prompts can facilitate transfer in children as young as 5 years and reveals that it matters if mom is listening.