According to research on the scientific method in psychology, which of the following is considered the most effective study technique for long-term retention of information?

• A. Rereading textbook chapters multiple times
• B. Highlighting key points in the text
• C. Listening to recorded lectures passively
• D. Retrieval practice (actively recalling information from memory)

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of long-term retention in psychology, which refers to the ability to remember information over extended periods.
2. Review common study techniques such as rereading, highlighting, and passive listening, and consider their effectiveness based on psychological research.
3. Learn about retrieval practice, which involves actively recalling information from memory rather than passively reviewing it.
4. Examine research findings that show retrieval practice strengthens memory traces and improves long-term retention more effectively than passive methods.
5. Conclude that retrieval practice is the most effective study technique for long-term retention because it engages active memory processes and reinforces learning.