Situational memory is sometimes called “Environmental Context Dependent Memory” and we can use it to our advantage when we need to remember longer chains of information. It works well if we use our surroundings to create memory hooks. It is great if you are revising for an exam or need to produce your knowledge at the drop of a hat. Here is an example of how to use it.

Choose an environment that you can develop a set of sensory memories in. A greenhouse is a good example, it may have a fragrant or green smell, be humid, bright or cramped. It may contain plants or objects that you can touch and smell. Under a worktop table there may be a different set of sensory hooks. Earth, plastic, bricks, stones – touch them, smell them, appreciate their texture or weight. Around and outside the greenhouse there may be a light breeze, paving stones or a bench. Each of these elements can be drawn into your memory as you study and experience the space. Start to link specific learning points to specific objects or sensory hooks. You might be learning a fact and smelling a rose or poking your fingers into warm soil. Recall of your learning will be heightened when you return to the place you studied. The more sensory memory you have included, the more situational memory you access. Always photograph and document the learning space in addition to what you are learning. Use personalised learning tools, this could be video, audio, a scanning pen, a laptop, use the things that help you to learn and remember.

Creating the situational hook is the starting point. In order to strengthen your memory, you need to revisit and relearn the same information in a different way. Return to the greenhouse and complete some follow up revision with a drawing and labelling task. This time, stick post-up-notes on the windows and order them – then photograph them, print them, put them in your revision book. After a month, revisit the learning points again. This time learn and look at the photographs and videos of your learning in the greenhouse. Now explore the information in a different way, this could be by mapping connections, writing sentences, recording information. You won’t need to be in the greenhouse this time, just dwelling on the hooks you have made as you work.

Timing your learning intervals for learning is just as important as what, where and how you have been learning. Hermann Ebbinghaus discovered that we forget up to 70% of what we have learned in 24 hours if we make no attempt to recall the information. In order to help you do the battle with the dreaded forgetting curve, use these strategies. Revisit information and explore it in different ways that are relevant to you. Space your learning. Use situational memory and keep visual, audio and physical records of your learning experience. We remember more when we are relaxed and happy, give yourself permission to enjoy learning.

An infographic by Scanning Pens’ Head of Education, Julia Clouter.