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Related Experiment Video

Updated: May 21, 2026

Using Practice Testing, Public Speaking, and Source Monitoring to Examine the Influences of Learning Strategies and Stress on Episodic Memory

Using Practice Testing, Public Speaking, and Source Monitoring to Examine the Influences of Learning Strategies and Stress on Episodic Memory

Published on: June 14, 2019

Testing and feedback effects on front-end control over later retrieval.

Ruthann C Thomas¹, Mark A McDaniel

¹Department of Psychology, Hendrix College, Conway, AR 72032, USA. ThomasR@Hendrix.edu

Journal of Experimental Psychology. Learning, Memory, and Cognition

|June 27, 2012

Summary

This summary is machine-generated.

Prior testing enhances memory recall by improving front-end control over information retrieval. This study found that both testing and feedback contribute uniquely to optimizing memory retrieval processes.

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Area of Science:

Cognitive Psychology
Neuroscience
Educational Psychology

Background:

Memory retrieval can be boosted by previously testing information.
Cognitive control during retrieval involves front-end processes regulating retrieval scope and post-retrieval monitoring.
Understanding these mechanisms is key to improving learning and memory.

Purpose of the Study:

To investigate the cognitive control mechanisms underlying the testing effect on memory recall.
To differentiate the roles of front-end control and post-retrieval monitoring in enhanced recall.
To determine the specific contributions of prior testing and feedback to memory optimization.

Main Methods:

Two experiments were conducted comparing conditions of prior testing (with and without feedback) and restudying.
Cognitive control at retrieval was assessed by examining front-end control and post-retrieval monitoring processes.
Recall performance on a final test was the primary measure of memory enhancement.

Main Results:

Prior testing with feedback improved front-end control over retrieval compared to restudying.
Successful retrieval during initial testing enhanced front-end control, irrespective of feedback.
No significant differences were found in post-retrieval monitoring processes across conditions.
Testing did not improve post-retrieval monitoring compared to restudying.

Conclusions:

Prior testing significantly enhances front-end control processes that regulate memory retrieval scope.
Both the act of testing and receiving feedback contribute uniquely to optimizing memory retrieval.
Front-end control, rather than post-retrieval monitoring, is the primary mechanism improved by prior testing and feedback.