Cognitive - Interference Theory of Forgetting

The interference theory of forgetting states that forgetting occurs when our ability to learn is affected by previously learnt information or information we are learning in the future.

The more similar the information the more chance there is for interference to occur.

There are two types of interference:

1.       Retroactive interference is when later learning interferes with previous learning eg. Finding it difficult to remember two languages you have been revising for all day

2.       Proactive interference is where previous learning interferes with later learning eg. Finding it hard to type on a new phone because you used to have a different model

h    For full marks in the exam on a description question use examples when explaining what the two types  of interference are. 

KEY ISSUE APPLICATION: Students know that they should study their subjects as different times very separately in order to avoid retroactive interference occurring.

Note: In the exam you could be asked to compare both theories of forgetting for around five marks, to do this make developed points showing their similarities and differences.

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