Science of Learning Strategy Series: Article 4, Application to Educational Meetings

Abstract

Abstract The science of learning (learning science) is an interprofessional field that concerns itself with how the brain learns and remembers important information. Learning science has compiled a set of evidence-based strategies, such as distributed practice, retrieval practice, and interleaving, which are quite relevant to continuing professional development. Spreading out study and practice separated by cognitive breaks (distributed practice), testing oneself to check mastery and memory of previously learned information (retrieval practice), and mixing the learning of distinct but related material (interleaving) represent strategies that are underutilized in continuing professional development. Participants and planners alike can benefit from learning science recommendations to inform their decisions. The common intervention of the educational meeting provides an opportunity to illustrate the benefits of these three learning-science strategies in continuing professional development.