Human memory functions in complex ways. There are things we’d like to remember all the time but always forget, like where we put the car keys. Other memories that seem inconsequential in the moment may stick with us for years.
Children’s memories play a huge part in their learning. After all, remembering information factors heavily into whether a child knows or can demonstrate a skill. However, the brain is selective with what it does and does not hold onto long-term. When students “cram” for a test, repeating the same vocabulary definition or date over and over again so they can regurgitate it the next day, they are creating a short-term memory. Using information in this way is not very beneficial long-term (unless, of course, your sole interest is in grades. In this case, read up on the importance of a growth mindset!). But short-term memory does play an important role in learning. When we use information only temporarily in order to practice a skill or accomplish a task, the brain’s “working memory” has kicked into gear.
Examples of Working Memory
A student is reading a book and comes upon a word she doesn’t know. She looks up the definition in the dictionary, and re-reads the sentence in her book, keeping the definition in mind. She may not remember that definition next week, or even tomorrow, but she’s used it to glean meaning from their text. This is working memory. Her classmate is solving algebra problems using a formula that has just been introduced. He has the formula fresh in his mind, and is able to keep it in his “mind’s eye” as he solves. He may not remember it tonight, but he remembers it long enough to get her work done. This is also working memory.
While working memory is crucial for students’ academic growth, school is not the only place working memory is used. Anytime you keep a phone number in your head in order to make a call, you are also using your working memory. Storing a few steps in your brain at once while you cook is another example of working memory. These are all tasks that you accomplish because you were able to remember something for a short period of time!
Students Who Struggle With Working Memory
Working memory does not come easily to all students. Those who struggle with executive function skills, as well as students with ADHD, usually have trouble accessing their working memory. This makes sense, since remembering information takes focus and concentration, skills that are especially difficult for students with these types of challenges. If your child has particular difficulty using their working memory, there are some strategies that can help. Aside from using mnemonics, something as simple as writing down that short-term information on a post-in note can help. Using a planner to remember to-do items, and keeping a collection of clearly marked steps for tasks that need to be done regularly may also be useful.
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