Sticky knowledge refers to information that remains with us over the long term. It’s the kind of knowledge that sticks in our memory and becomes readily accessible when needed.
When learning is effective, it results in alterations in our long-term memory. In other words, we retain the knowledge beyond the immediate learning experience.
Sticky knowledge can be categorised into two main parts
Interesting Facts: These are tidbits of information that we remember because they capture our curiosity or imagination.
Curriculum-Related Knowledge: This includes essential concepts and content that individuals need to learn as part of their education.
Principles for Achieving Sticky Knowledge:
Generative Knowledge: The more you know, the easier it becomes to understand new information. Knowledge is generative—it builds upon itself. Encourage students to explore related topics, make connections, and deepen their understanding. Recognise that when learning is new, cognitive load is high. Expect that learners may forget newly taught content. Implement spaced repetition—revisit previously taught material at intervals to reinforce memory
Mastery Approach: While curriculum coverage is essential, prioritising deeper learning over rushing through content. This embeds knowledge firmly in long-term memory before moving on to new material. Identify key concepts within subjects and ensure they are central to planning.
Vocabulary Development: A broad vocabulary correlates with academic success. Schooling plays a crucial role in expanding children’s vocabulary. Teach vocabulary explicitly and connect it to meaningful contexts.
What we do at Top Of The Class to create Sticky Knowledge:
Firstly, we make sure that each module of our course is engaging. Use of quiz apps like Kahoot and varying team sizes offers our students extra exposure and extra motivation to remember the subject in question. Repetition is much maligned but if practice makes perfect then our course definitely pushes in that direction.
We set homework that is a preparation for a quiz or competition in the weeks ahead and we make this clear. Students can encourage each other to put in the hard yards at home in order to see off the competition in class. This will embed their knowledge further and give their work a short term purpose, as well as knowledge that will ‘stick!’ long term.
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