Flashcard Making Reflection

Flashcards are small note cards used for testing and improving memory through practiced information retrieval. Flashcards are typically two-sided, with the prompt on one side and the information about the prompt on the other. This may include names, vocabulary, concepts, or procedures. Flashcards are very effective in teaching. They prompt us to dig in our memory for the right answer, they prompt us to really think about how well we know something, and they allow us to study what we don't know using spaced repetition. Of course, there are other effective ways to study and learn. Where possible, you should always try to learn new concepts by asking your own questions. The traditional use of flashcards is for memorization only. 

I have learned that making use of the flashcards multiple times makes you memorize the topics. Just like the first time you review any relatively new information, the first time you use the flashcards may be a bit overwhelming or frustrating because of the “forgetting” that has occurred. With repetition, you will remember more and more, therefore forgetting less and less. The “forgetting curve” levels out, and the learning becomes “durable”. While there is some value to remembering key terms and other information, it’s important to remember that in college there is far less memorization than in high school, as learners need to be able to apply and make meaning of information.

I have already discovered that digital flashcards increase distractions. But getting students to effectively practice with physical flashcards is more difficult since it is manual. I have found that I must model and explain the procedure every single time we use the flashcards.  I want the flashcards to be truly useful, not simply an activity that takes time. I am sure that I will refine my approach more with time. In spite of the difficulties that come with change, I have found flashcards to be extremely useful and would recommend that their use would be expanded.