(from P.A.Wozniak, Economics of Learning)
Deletion is a simple technique that makes it possible to quickly generate collections of items derived from the same complex piece of knowledge, for example an intricate sentence. In an item based on Cloze deletion, the question presents a coherent piece of knowledge with a single element missing (standardly denoted by three dots), while the answer provides the missing element. In the previous sections, a number of deletions have been presented in the context of item sequencing, minimum information principle and enumeration techniques. Here, I would only like to focus on graphic deletions and Cloze deletions that may capitalize on their graphic aspects.
Graphic deletions differ from previously presented deletions in this way that instead of textual elements, pieces of graphs are deleted or obstructed, and the answer might provide the missing piece or its name. Because of basing on visual processing capability of the cerebral cortex, graphic deletions are a powerful tool for representing knowledge with a view to minimizing pattern extraction in the course of repetitions.
Deletion does not have to be graphic to make use of visual processing powers of the brain. The mere spatial distribution of particular textual components may evoke visual images that will increase the efficacy of recall. If enumerative deletions do not change the sequence in which enumerated elements appear in the question, their spatial location will strongly be imprinted in the students memory despite little emphasis on location at the recall time. This makes it easier to graphically visualize the enumeration. As a consequence, it is not unusual that the student will be able to recall the entire enumeration in spite of the fact that indeed neither of the items in the deletion group requires the knowledge of the enumeration itself to qualify for a passing grade at repetitions.
Here again is an example of an item based on Cloze deletion. The important thing to notice is the clear visual image of the three-part enumerative structure evoked in the process of learning.
Q: The options for a higher cost company in competition with a more cost-effective rival:
- ... (big losses expected)
- collusion (rather illegal)
- improvement (of the product or cost structure)A: price war
Naturally, at least two other items of the same sort will appear in a well-structured knowledge system; the missing component being collusion and product of cost-efficiency improvement. Additionally, elements of the declarative part preceding the enumeration might be made missing. As a result, several items will work on enhancing the visual component of the textual structure; the net result being better recall of the elements and the entire piece of knowledge.