Dusting off the Tool Box: Tips for Trainers

Section 2: Handout 1

What We Remember, What We Retain

The type of instructional strategies used makes a difference in how much information people remember. Research shows that active learning involving multiple senses provides the basis for a higher percentage of information retention.

For example:

When instructors use:	Students remember:
Lecture	5 percent
Reading	10 percent
Audio-Visuals	20 percent
Demonstration	30 percent
Discussion in groups	50 percent
Reflection and active involvement (practice by doing)	75 percent
Immediate application (teaching others to do)	90 percent