Does pre-testing work? And how to apply it to a LiveCase.

A study published in the Journal of Experimental Psychology: Applied provides the following findings:

The present study reveals that taking a practice test before a text passage is read (pretesting) can yield similar and, in a variety of circumstances, greater learning benefits than taking a practice test after a text passage is read (posttesting).

From Pretesting versus posttesting: Comparing the pedagogical benefits of errorful generation and retrieval practice.

So, what does all of this imply? Is it a good idea to put your players through their paces before teaching them the content? According to the findings of this investigation, it appears that it may be the case.

After some consideration, it appears that it would be consistent with the presentation rule of thumb:

• Tell them what you are going to tell them
• Tell them
• Tell them what you told them

So here's a concept for your next piece of material on how to put this information into practice.

How to apply it to a Livecase

There are two methods in which you may make use of this data with Livecase.

Ask questions at the start of the case

At the beginning of the case, pose questions to your participants that are relevant to the topic of the case. Then, at the conclusion of the case, question them again, perhaps differently to throw them off their game. We don't want to make things too simple as well.

Create a Livecase to start your class

Additionally, you might construct a specific Livecase that you assign as homework before the introduction of the material, or even at the beginning of the class session! This would also be an excellent opportunity to put your players through their paces in terms of learning how to use Livecase.