Question

Which of the following describes that random practice causes people to appreciate the distinctiveness of different tasks?

1) forgetting hypothesis
2) elaboration hypothesis
3) retrieval practice
4) desirable difficulties

Answer 1

The elaboration hypothesis explains how random practice enhances the appreciation and retention of the distinctiveness of different tasks by creating richer memory traces through elaborative rehearsal.

Step-by-step explanation:

The concept that describes random practice causing people to appreciate the distinctiveness of different tasks is the elaboration hypothesis. This hypothesis suggests that by engaging in varied practice, individuals differentiate between tasks and encode this information more effectively. The elaboration hypothesis is linked to memory-enhancing strategies such as forming distinct mental connections between pieces of information.

For example, when learning to play various musical instruments, practicing them in a random order can help a musician appreciate the unique playing techniques and sounds of each instrument. This differentiated learning ensures that knowledge of one does not interfere with the recall of another, enhancing long-term retention. It contrasts with repetitive practice of a single task, which may lead to a less rich encoding of information.