Which strategy is effective for assessing whether participants are retaining information?

Encouraging participants to teach back the material is an effective strategy for assessing information retention because it actively engages participants in the learning process. When learners explain what they have understood to others, it reinforces their own knowledge and highlights areas where they might still have gaps in understanding. This method not only confirms whether they can recall and articulate the information learned but also promotes active learning and critical thinking. As participants teach the content, they are likely to clarify their own comprehension and solidify the concepts in their memory. This interactive approach fosters a more dynamic learning environment and provides immediate feedback on the effectiveness of the training.

In contrast, administering surprise exams or lengthy surveys tend to focus on assessment after the fact and may induce anxiety rather than promoting understanding. Providing lengthy lectures without interaction minimizes participant engagement, which is crucial for information retention.