The Effects of Feedback Formats on the Negative Suggestion Effect

• In Event: Roundtable Session 2
  In Roundtable Session: Factors That Create Supportive and Effective Learning Environments

Abstract

Although there is considerable evidence suggesting that testing can be a learning aid to enhance retention (the testing effect), some researchers have found that multiple-choice and true/false tests can lead to the memorization of erroneous information (the negative suggestion effect). Feedback minimizes negative suggestion effects, although to date, research has yet to determine whether certain types of feedback could expose students to the learning of additional erroneous information. This study compared the learning outcomes of various test and feedback formats as they relate to the negative suggestion effect. Results showed that placing feedback in its original context is more beneficial for long-term retention even when exposed to additional erroneous information. Practical implications and directions for future research are discussed.

Authors

• Dominic Angelo Trevisan, Simon Fraser University

• Olusola Olalekan Adesope, Washington State University