As educators, we are well aware of the challenges students face when it comes to memorisation. With the vast amount of information available at the fingertips, it can be overwhelming for students to commit facts to memory. According to Daniel T Willingham, “In today’s world, is there a reason to memorize anything? You can find any factual information you need in seconds via the Internet.”
Psychology of Memory: Research in psychology reveals that there are three stages of memory: encoding, storage, and retrieval. These stages involve both short-term and long-term memory. However, with the rapid pace of technological advancements, the information stored in long-term memory can quickly become outdated.
Weak Memory and Mental Retardation: A study conducted by the Agha Khan University in Pakistan’s coastal belt area revealed a disturbing trend. The research found that the consumption of dead fish, contaminated with toxic chemicals discharged by companies, was a major contributor to weak memory and mental retardation in children.
Why Students Don’t Like School: In his book, Why Students Don’t like School, Daniel T Willingham argues that the mind is not designed for thinking. He suggests that our brains are wired to conserve mental energy, which can lead to a lack of engagement in academic tasks. This is particularly relevant when it comes to memorisation, as students may struggle to see the relevance or importance of committing facts to memory.
Role of Technology: In this digital age, it is essential that we incorporate technology into our teaching methods. As Willingham suggests, “Perhaps instead of learning facts, it’s better to practice critical thinking.” By using computers and the internet, students can access a vast array of information, evaluate sources, and develop critical thinking skills.
Limitations of Human Memory: Jacob Nielsen’s research on psychology and UX highlights the limitations of human memory. He notes that people can only retain a small amount of information in their short-term memory, especially when faced with complex or abstract data.
In conclusion, memorisation is a significant challenge for students in the digital age. However, by incorporating technology into our teaching methods and focusing on critical thinking skills, we can help students navigate the vast amount of information available to them. As educators, it is our responsibility to provide students with the tools and skills necessary to succeed in this rapidly changing world.
Abida Mehmood, Educationist
Karachi
