These short animations introduce core principles from the Science of Learning. Such as memory, dual coding and retrieval practice, and show how they support effective teaching. Use them to spark discussion with learners, deepen understanding, and connect evidence to everyday classroom practice.
The creation of the videos were funded by Education in Motion, who have kindly given permission for them to be made available on this page.
Understanding Memory
Understanding how memory works is one of the most important foundations of effective learning. This video explores the journey information takes from entering our working memory to becoming part of our long-term memory. Where it can be stored, strengthened and retrieved when we need it.
Working memory is the mental space we use to hold and process information in the moment. But, it is limited and often unreliable. That’s why we sometimes forget a question we were asked a moment ago, lose track of what we came into a room for, or struggle to recall something that feels “on the tip of our tongue.”
Dual Coding
A powerful learning strategy that involves combining words and visuals to make information clearer, easier to understand and more memorable. This video introduces the idea that our brains process verbal and visual information through two different channels.
When we engage both at the same time, reading text alongside a diagram, hearing an explanation supported by an image, or linking vocabulary to a picture. We create stronger connections that help us recall information later.
Retrieval Practice
Retrieval practice is the process of deliberately recalling information from memory, and it is one of the most effective ways to strengthen long-term learning. This video looks at why bringing information to mind, rather than simply reviewing notes, creates a powerful learning effect.
When we retrieve something from long-term memory, we reinforce the memory trace, making it easier to recall in the future. Over time, this leads to faster, more confident access to what we know.
Deliberate Practice
A structured and purposeful approach to improving performance. Rather than simply repeating a task, deliberate practice focuses on working at the right level of challenge, receiving feedback and continually refining skills.
This video explains what separates deliberate practice from everyday effort, and why it is central to progressing from novice to expert in academic, creative and practical domains.
Spacing and Interleaving
Spacing and interleaving are two complementary study strategies that help learning stick by changing not just how we study, but when and how we organise our learning over time. The former involves spreading learning out in smaller, repeated sessions rather than cramming everything into one long block.
Interleaving, on the other hand, involves mixing different topics, skills or problem types within a study schedule instead of focusing on one block at a time.
