The effectiveness of the loci method as a mnemonic device: Meta-analysis.
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Authors
Twomey, Conal
Kroneisen, Meike
Issue Date
2021-02-18
Type
Journal Article
Meta-Analysis
Meta-Analysis
Language
en
Keywords
Meta-analysis , loci , memory , mnemonic
Alternative Title
Abstract
The "loci method" is a popular mnemonic device that involves visualising and recalling items at specific points along a familiar route. The loci method has been used for thousands of years, and by many successful memory athletes; yet there have been relatively few educational and clinical applications, possibly owing to empirical uncertainty. The current meta-analysis of 13 randomised controlled trials (RCTs) mostly based in university settings demonstrated the effectiveness of the loci method as a mnemonic device, with a medium effect size ( = 0.65, 95% confidence interval [CI] = [0.45, 0.85]; = 45.5%). The effect size remained at similar levels in further analyses adjusting for publication bias, the impact of removing each study, setting, control conditions, outliers, and number of loci method sessions. High risk of experimental bias was indicated, however, as the vast majority of studies did not report procedures to minimise biases relating to random sequence generation and allocation concealment. Overall, this meta-analysis of predominantly university-based RCTs has provided good initial support for the loci method as a mnemonic device and this may encourage future investigations and applications, particularly in educational settings, where it has the potential to improve recall of information relevant to academic success.
Description
Citation
Twomey, C., & Kroneisen, M. (2021). The effectiveness of the loci method as a mnemonic device: Meta-analysis. Quarterly journal of experimental psychology (2006), 74(8), 1317–1326. https://doi.org/10.1177/1747021821993457
Publisher
License
Journal
Quarterly journal of experimental psychology (2006)
Volume
74
Issue
8
PubMed ID
ISSN
1747-0226