Re-Watching Lectures as a Study Strategy and Its Effect on Mind Wandering

Exp Psychol. 2018 Sep;65(5):297-305. doi: 10.1027/1618-3169/a000412. Epub 2018 Sep 20.

Abstract

Material re-exposure (e.g., re-reading) is a popular mnemonic strategy, however, its utility has been questioned. We extend research on re-reading to re-watching - an emerging mnemonic technique given the increased use of recorded lectures today (e.g., in online courses). Consistent with findings from recent investigations of re-reading, there were no benefits of massed re-watching on memory for lecture material and re-watching increased rates of mind wandering. We discuss implications for understanding the cognitive consequences of re-exposure-based mnemonics.

Keywords: education; learning; mind wandering.

MeSH terms

  • Attention / physiology*
  • Cognition
  • Comprehension
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Learning*
  • Male
  • Memory
  • Reading
  • Young Adult