Mnemonics+-+as+presented+to+class

//“Mnemonics is a memory enhancing instructional strategy that involves teaching students to link new information that is taught to information they already know.”//

Please launch and review the attached PowerPoint, including the video links of mnemonics in action from the BBC. (links are also included below in case there is difficulty with the PowerPoint file)
 * [|**http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X-xl7_hdWZo**] **
 * [|**http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9NROegsMqNc**] **

In the discussion forum, answer these first few questions … 1. What is your oldest memory of a mnemonic that you used or were taught to remember a lesson? 2. Have you ever invented your own mnemonic, or altered a traditional mnemonic to you preference, and do you still remember it today? Please share some details.

and, after some reflection, consider and respond to the following. A. How do we take the concept of mnemonics beyond simple "memory tricks" and use the underlying principles to improve education, or is it just a memory trick? B. Although effective for fact regurgitation, do mnemonics hold any true value in education if our objective is to develop deeply thinking problem solvers? 

For further investigation of mnemonics, please refer to the following links. Cartoon video example of a mnemonic device to remember the signs of a stroke; [] Brief history of mnemonics; [] Concise description of various mnemonic techniques []