The Use of Retrieval Practice in the Health Professions: A State-of-the-Art Review

Area of Science:

• Cognitive Psychology
• Health Professions Education

Background:

• Retrieval practice, the active recall of information, is a scientifically validated learning strategy.
• It is widely adopted in health professions for exams, strengthening memory and comprehension.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the historical development of retrieval practice in health professions education.
• To examine current applications and future directions for retrieval practice integration.
• To identify and address barriers to student adoption of retrieval practice.

Main Methods:

• State-of-the-art literature review.
• Historical analysis of retrieval practice adoption.
• Exploration of factors driving growth and challenges.

Main Results:

• Formal recognition of retrieval practice surged in the early 2000s, with significant research and curricular adoption from 2010-2025.
• Growth is linked to assessment-driven education and third-party study resources.
• Barriers to student adoption persist despite proven benefits.

Conclusions:

• Retrieval practice is a powerful, evidence-based learning tool for health professions.
• Strategies are needed to overcome adoption barriers and enhance curriculum integration.
• Further research can optimize retrieval practice's impact in health professions education.