Uses of mnemonics in educational settings: A brief review of selected research

Abstract

The wide-ranging applications of mnemonic strategies in educational settings are reviewed through selected examples of research studies that have been undertaken during the past couple of decades. These studies point out the effectiveness of these strategies not just in teaching many kinds of information that students often find difficult to remember, but also in teaching those with special learning needs. The varieties of mnemonic strategies that exist are highlighted from simple keywords for remembering new vocabulary words to a sophisticated method for remembering procedures that was developed in Japan. Common misconceptions about the use of mnemonic techniques are noted, followed by some of the more recent research findings on people's use of these techniques that ought to dispel many of the misgivings associated with their use. Finally, possible future research directions on mnemonics and their uses are discussed.