Evidence for Learning: SLRC PEN Principles

The Science of Learning Research Centre (SLRC) was established in 2013, funded as an Australian Research Council Special Research Initiative, with the vision to improve learning outcomes at pre-school, primary, secondary and tertiary levels through scientifically-validated learning tools and strategies. The SLRC brings together more than 100 neuroscientists, psychologists and education researchers from across the country, collaborating on programs to better understand learning, using a range of innovative experimental techniques and programs. 

The PEN Principles have been developed to enable ease of use by teachers, students and parents. The resources not only provide valuable information but provide teachers, students and parents a chance to blog and share conversation. 

The 12 PEN Principles are:

1. Written text and spoken word don’t mix
2. Visual Images and Spoken Word Mix Well
3. Spatial Predictability Guides Attention
4. Spacing-Out Practice Enhances Memory
5. Leverage Context according to Outcome
6. Multitasking Impairs Memory & Learning
7. Mix-Up Practice Tasks to Boost Performance
8. Embrace Error to Improve Learning
9. Active Recall Trumps Passive Review
10. First Impressions Colour Future Judgement
11. Find the Story Behind the Fact
12. Pre-Activate Strategies to Guide Learning

Use the links below to access the Teaching & Learning Toolkit approaches mapped to each relevant PEN Principle.