Generation effect

The generation effect is the tendency to remember information better when producing it oneself than when merely reading or hearing it.

Encoding (memory): Encoding is the process by which perceived information is transformed into a memory representation. Generating an answer can alter how information is encoded compared with simply reading it.
Memory: Memory is the capacity to encode, retain, and later retrieve information. The generation effect describes a difference in how well information is retained.
Active learning: Active learning engages learners in activities that require them to process or produce knowledge. Generating answers is one way to replace passive exposure with active engagement.
Norman Slamecka: Norman Slamecka was a cognitive psychologist known for research on memory and verbal learning. His experiments with Peter Graf established the generation effect as a robust memory phenomenon.
Elaborative encoding: Elaborative encoding connects new information with related knowledge and meaning. Generation often prompts people to make meaningful connections while forming a memory.
Recall (memory): Recall is retrieval of information from memory without its complete presentation as a recognition option. Generation effects are often measured by testing whether generated items can later be recalled.
Self-explanation: Self-explanation is the practice of explaining material to oneself while learning it. Producing an explanation can create the kind of self-generated information that supports memory.
Peter Graf: Peter Graf is a cognitive psychologist whose research includes memory and the generation effect. His collaboration with Slamecka produced the influential 1978 study of generated words.
Distinctiveness effect: The distinctiveness effect is improved memory for items that stand out from their surroundings. Self-generated material can become distinctive against the read or heard material around it.
Recognition memory: Recognition memory is the ability to identify previously encountered information as familiar. Recognition tests show whether generation benefits extend beyond free recall.

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