Drill and Practice in Learning (and Beyond)

Synonyms

Manipulative practice; Repetitive learning; Rote learning; Routine exercise; Systematic repetition

Definition

The term drill and practice is defined as a method of instruction characterized by systematic repetition of concepts, examples, and practice problems. Drill and practice is a disciplined and repetitious exercise, used as a mean of teaching and perfecting a skill or procedure. As an instructional strategy, it promotes the acquisition of knowledge or skill through systematic training by multiple repetitions, rehearse, practice, and engages in a rehearsal in order to learn or become proficient. Similar to memorization, drill and practice involves repetition of specific skills, such as spelling or multiplication. To develop or maintain one’s specific skills, the subskills built through drill and practice should become the building blocks for more meaningful learning.

Theoretical Background

The history of drill and practice can be dated back to the 1940s when educational...