Research School Network: Maximising Memory in Primary Schools Helping primary school leaders explore the evidence from cognitive science that can help their pupils learn.

Why this programme?

One of the hardest challenges in teaching is making sure that pupils remember. Fortunately, we have a wealth of evidence that can help us to find appropriate solutions. From our lessons, to our resources, to our curricula, cognitive science can help.

As the language of cognitive science becomes more familiar in schools, we also see an abundance of myths and misconceptions and there is a danger that this can become just the latest gimmick. And just how much of the evidence applies to primary schools anyway?

With case studies from local primary schools, we will explore the latest evidence, and use it to inform the best approaches so that we can teach with memory in mind.

Aims of the programme 

By the end of the programme, participants will have an understanding of the evidence around memory, which they can use to implement effective strategies that benefit long term learning.

Who should attend the course?

This course will benefit anyone who wishes to develop their understanding of memory and how it can be developed in the classroom. Ideally, those in a position to implement effective strategies in a school, phase, subject or classroom.

Day 1:
Models of Memory and theories of how we learn.
Making the most of retrieval practice
Knowledge Organisers in the primary classroom

Twilight 1:
Working Memory and Cognitive Load Theory

Twilight 2:
Metacognition to support memory

Final Day:
Strategies from Cognitive Science, including spacing, interleaving and dual coding.
Implementation planning to ensure any new strategies stick.

Who should attend the course?

This course will benefit anyone who wishes to develop their understanding of memory and how it can be developed in the classroom. Ideally, those in a position to implement effective strategies in a school, phase, subject or classroom.