Knowledge retention is the ability to recall material learned for at least one month after it has been taught. This is typically observed in the administering of a delayed post-test. Increased retention or stable retention can help show the extent to which guided simulations in education are effective.

Measures of Success: Knowledge Retention

The retention ratio is a measure of how well retained information is relative to the initial reception of knowledge. This is represented numerically by taking the score on a delayed post-test, subtracting the initial score, and dividing the difference by a maximum score.
This is represented as: retention (k) = (delayed score - initial score) / max score

Measures of Success: Retention Ratio

Generally guided simulation success is measured in various ways using statistics that determine significance.

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Simulated learning environments can combine motivation with active learning strategies (e.g. microtasking) to produce favorable outcomes for students in academic settings. Students that are considered "low-achieving" in a learning discipline are able to develop strategies through models to ultimately learn at similar rates to "high-achieving" counterparts.

Guided Simulations Models in Education

Within the development of learning simulations; microtasks are defined as short, focused worksheets that present. a single concept to be applied in full later into the simulation. Microtasks are particularly effective because they:
1.) Shift cognitive burden during the learning simulation.
2.) Build what could be described as a "toolbox" of skills. This could also be described as cumulative knowledge.
3.) Prove that each task can be used in a variety of situations. Retrieval of microtasked information (via worksheets) are particularly significant when they have been used with greater frequency and/or variety.

Microtasks in Context

Guided simulations are models for teaching and learning that have actual learning applications. Within the Watt study, specific rules for learning are set by the teacher for the students to follow. The idea is that this simulated learning environment will create sufficient grade or career outcomes for students in "actual" learning environments. Simulations can help reduce disparities in learning by modeling and educational experience for students who have not had sufficient learning opportunities.

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