Innovative visual mnemonic learning tools like Sketchy Medical and Pixorize have grown in popularity recently. But what does the science say about their efficacy?
Many studies validate the cognitive science behind these platforms for memorization and knowledge retention.
Mnemonics Enhance Memory Consolidation
Research shows mnemonics aid the consolidation of new information into long-term memory. A 2021 randomized controlled trial had medical students use story-based audiovisual mnemonics or conventional textbook reading to learn anatomy facts (Abdalla et al., 2021).
The mnemonic group outperformed reading alone for recalling details on delayed tests, indicating superior memory encoding. Entertainment elements like humor likely also played a role.
Sketchy Medical videos leverage similar principles, using visual narratives and characters. This engages students better than plain flashcards to stick to key details.
Drawing Boosts Retention Through Elaborative Rehearsal
There is also evidence that the process of drawing concepts yourself improves learning.
In one study, students instructed to draw illustrations of newly learned information and share them with peers showed better retention on delayed tests (Jurowski,2015).
The very act of creating meaningful visualizations utilizes elaborative rehearsal processes in the brain, serving as an effective mnemonic technique.
While Sketchy and Pixorize provide illustrations, active drawing works similarly by cementing details.
Pattern Recognition Skills Aid Diagnostic Accuracy
Beyond memorization, visual learning strategies can boost skills like pattern recognition to apply knowledge clinically.
A 2008 study had medical students undergo formal visual art observation training (Naghshineh et al., 2008). The training improved their visual diagnostic skills and ability to identify image abnormalities.
Pixorize and Sketchy videos aim to ingrain visual clinical patterns to make connections to real patient cases.
Optimizing Learning Through Combining Approaches
While compelling in isolation, researchers suggest combining multiple learning modes for added benefit. Visual mnemonics paired with practices like spaced repetition study have high potential.
By integrating mnemonics into a broader strategy, students codify knowledge in complementary ways for multifaceted retention.
In closing, empirical evidence demonstrates the concrete advantages of platforms centered around visual mnemonics, elaboration, and pattern recognition. Used strategically, Sketchy and Pixorize offer science-backed methods for impactful exam preparation.
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References
Abdalla, M., Azzani, M., Rajendren, R., Hong, T., Balachandran, Y., Hassan, T., … & Haja, M. (2021). Effect of story-based audiovisual mnemonics in comparison with text-reading method on memory consolidation among medical students: a randomized controlled trial. The American Journal of the Medical Sciences, 362(6), 612-618. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.amjms.2021.07.015
Jurowski, K., Jurowska, A., & Krzeczkowska, M. (2015). Comprehensive review of mnemonic devices and their applications: state of the art. International E-Journal of Science Medicine & Education, 9(3), 4-9. https://doi.org/10.56026/imu.9.3.4
Naghshineh, S., Hafler, J., Miller, A., Blanco, M., Lipsitz, S., Dubroff, R., … & Katz, J. (2008). Formal art observation training improves medical students’ visual diagnostic skills. Journal of General Internal Medicine, 23(7), 991-997. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11606-008-0667-0
