What contributes to a 70% retention rate in learning?

Saying or writing information plays a significant role in achieving a 70% retention rate in learning due to the active engagement it necessitates from the learner. When individuals articulate what they have learned, either verbally or through writing, they reinforce their understanding and memory of the material. This process is often referred to as the "active learning" technique, where the act of producing information helps to solidify it in the memory.

Engaging with the content in a way that requires personal expression prompts deeper cognitive processing. For example, when someone paraphrases or summarizes information in their own words, it encourages them to connect new knowledge with prior knowledge, leading to better retention. This method also allows learners to identify areas of confusion, prompting them to seek clarification or further learning, which further enhances retention.

In contrast, simply reading, listening to lectures, or using visual aids may not engage the learner as deeply as saying or writing, resulting in lower retention rates. These methods can be passive forms of learning, which typically do not create the same level of cognitive engagement necessary for long-term memory retention.