A Teacher’s Guide to Creating Materials That Support Efficient Learning: From Scientific Background to AI-based content creation
Open accessAbstract
Research has shown that actively trying to retrieve information from memory, also known as retrieval practice, is an effective way to learn information. Compared to passive study techniques such as reading a textbook, questioning yourself is especially beneficial for promoting long-term information retention. Automated learning applications are a popular way to implement retrieval practice in the classroom. In this article we provide some practical guidelines for creating good content for retrieval practice, with an emphasis on (1) how to choose a suitable question type, (2) how to formulate questions and answer options, and (3) how to use generative artificial intelligence to speed up the process of creating content for retrieval practice.
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Reliability of AI-generated content and potential biases in information processing are challenges that need careful consideration.
“Issues such as the reliability of AIgenerated content and the potential for biases in information processing must be carefully considered [28,29].”
From Integrating Generative Artificial Intelligence Tools and Competencies in Biomedical Engineering Education (2025) · cites this paper as [29]
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Khojah, R., Werth, A., Broadhead, K. W., Dobrucki, L. W., Geiger, C., & Rubenstein, D. A. (2025) · Biomedical Engineering Education · doi:10.1007/s43683-025-00175-9 · Cited by 9 · see citing works
- Authors
- McCabe, N., van der Velde, M., Braam, M., & Wilschut, T.
- Publisher
- Center for Open Science
- Published
- 2024-03-05
- OpenAlex
- W4392639775
- Cited by
- 1
- References
- 19
- Citations by year
- 2025: 1
- Type
- posted content
- Language
- en
- Open access
- green
- doi.org
- Licence
- Locations
- PsyArXiv (OSF Preprints) (submittedVersion, public-domain)
- Topics
- Life Sciences › Neuroscience › Cognitive Neuroscience › Memory Processes and Influences
- Social Sciences › Psychology › Developmental and Educational Psychology › Innovative Teaching and Learning Methods
- Physical Sciences › Computer Science › Information Systems › Artificial Intelligence in Education
- Keywords
- retrieval practice, active recall, question design, answer options, generative AI, teaching materials, long-term retention, self-questioning
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