In the practice of education, tests are mostly used for assessment purposes only. However, research in cognitive psychology has demonstrated that the memory for tested information is also strengthened by the retrieval process during the test. This so-called ‘testing effect’ implies that testing information can provide a long-term benefit over restudying the same information and can prevent memory decay for learned information. The research projects “The power of self-testing for comprehension” (Project 1) and “Optimizing test-enhanced learning in an educationally relevant context: The influence of retention interval, learner expertise, and feedback” (Project 2) are both aimed at applying the testing effect to education, especially to learning from texts. Project 1 focuses on the question whether tests can enhance both long-term retention as well as comprehension of texts. Project 2 focuses on the question when and en how often tests should be used to prevent the forgetting of learned information.
The two PhD candidates will closely collaborate in their research projects. Also, the candidates will be employed as tutors for courses in the field of cognitive psychology, educational psychology and/or research methodology.
Your profile
Master's degree in Cognitive Psychology or Educational Psychology, or a related field
Excellent research and writing skills and experience with experimental research (preferably in applied settings)
Excellent mastery of both written and spoken English
Information
For a summary of the research project visit the website:http://www.psyweb.nl/homepage/peter_verkoeijen/vacature_promovendus.pdf.
For further information concerning these positions please contact dr. Huib Tabbers (Project 1), tel +31104088693, e-mail:tabbers@fsw.eur.nl, or dr. Peter Verkoeijen (Project 2) tel +31104081305, e-mail: verkoeijen@fsw.eur.nl. For additional information about the Institute of Psychology you can visit our Website: http://www.psyweb.nl.
Application Procedure
Candidates are welcome to send their application including a Curriculum Vitae, a list of grades and at least one reference to: Erasmus University Rotterdam, Faculty of Social Sciences, to the attention of dr. Peter Verkoeijen (T13-11), P.O. Box 1738, 3000 DR Rotterdam, The Netherlands or by e-mail: sollicitaties-psychologie@fsw.eur.nl. When applying please mention your preference for Project 1 or Project 2.
