edtech
A design blueprint for supporting voluntary retrieval practice during gaps in instruction
- Source
- Educational Technology Research and Development
- Published
- Last verified
- 9 Aug 2026
- Confidence
- High
- Evidence
- Original document retained
- Reading time
- 1 min
- Country
- International
- Relevant to
- Research & Evidence, People & Capability, Risk & Compliance, Technology & Data
Executive summary
What happened, and why should leadership care?
The 'Keep in School Shape (KiSS) Program' proposes a design blueprint for maintaining student engagement and academic skill retention during periods of instructional gaps, such as school vacations or closures. Leveraging online survey software, the program delivers daily, voluntary retrieval practice opportunities via text or email, specifically targeting math skills. This initiative aims to counteract the 'rusty skills' phenomenon observed when learning continuity is disrupted, offering a low-stakes environment for sustained engagement.
Why this matters
Why is this strategically important?
This research is strategically important for understanding how to mitigate learning loss and maintain educational momentum during non-instructional periods. It offers a scalable, technology-supported approach to support continuous skill development, which can enhance overall educational outcomes and prepare learners for future studies.
Key insights
What should be noted from the evidence?
- School vacations and closures disrupt learning continuity and diminish student engagement.
- Extended breaks lead to irregular engagement with learning activities and skill erosion.
- The KiSS Program utilizes online survey software to provide daily, voluntary retrieval practice.
- The program focuses on maintaining math skills through text message or email reminders.
- It offers a low-stakes environment to encourage continued learning during instructional gaps.
Evidence and confidence
How far can this assessment be trusted?
High confidence. Named institution, original document retained and analysis corroborated.
Analysis is prepared editorially by Aziz Shuaib Ausi. The original publication remains the authoritative record, and executive judgement remains entirely human.
Source
Where does this originate?
Reported by Educational Technology Research and Development · International. This briefing summarises the publication for executive use; the document itself is not reproduced here.
Read the original publication