Spaced Retrieval Practice | Episode 1

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1 | Introductions

7 minutes

I briefly introduce myself (Kevin Patton) and explain why I’m doing this podcast. I love teaching and this is simply an extension of my teaching!  It’s all about the art and science of teaching, with practical applications and updates of content. I also invite listeners to participate actively by contributing questions, recorded snippets, interviews, and ideas.

I also mention my announcer, my daughter Aileen, and the composer of our theme music, Andrés Rodriquez.

• Kevin Patton LinkedIn Profile
• Lion Den (Kevin’s other A&P website) 
• Kevin’s Role in HAPS
• Master of Science in Human Anatomy & Physiology Instruction
• Showcase of Andrés Rodríguez (composer of our theme music)

2 | Update on Immune Role of Platelets

5 minutes

I summarize the newly described functions of motile platelets (not the sticky ones) in grabbing and bundling bacteria from a site of injury. The motile platelets then deliver the bacteria to neutrophils, which gobble up the bacteria. I offer suggestions on when (and if) one could use this information in teaching an A&P course.

• The A&P Professor blog: Platelets vs. Bacteria (Additional information and links to other sources)

3 | HAPS Regional Conference in St. Louis

1.5 minutes

I invite you to attend (and perhaps present) at the HAPS Regional Conference in St. Louis, MO. It’s March 24, 2018, at the St. Louis College of Pharmacy.

• HAPS Central Regional Conference in St. Louis March 24, 2018

4 | Spaced Retrieval Practice

16 minutes

Spaced retrieval practice is a powerful method of learning in which a student practices, practices, practices retrieving information. Spacing the retrieval allows a bit of forgetting, forcing the student to refresh the memories needed–thus improving long-term retention. It’s not just for the basic facts, but also for any memories of applications and previous problem-solving needed for higher-order learning.

I suggest that computerized testing makes extensive retrieval practice practical. And I give a brief description of my own case study using online testing as a way to provide practice for my students in A&P. A future episode will cover this online testing scenario further.

• Book: Make It Stick: The Science of Successful Learning by Peter C. Brown,‎ Henry L. Roediger III,‎ Mark A. McDaniel.
• Book: Small Teaching: Everyday Lessons from the Science of Learning by James M. Lang.
• APA article: A powerful way to improve learning and memory: Practicing retrieval enhances long-term, meaningful learning. By Jeffrey D. Karpicke, PhD
• Spacing Your A&P Studying (send your students here)

Last updated: September 27, 2025 at 17:16 pm