Education + Entertainment = Retention

In the immortal words of Russel Crowe in the 2000 smash hit Gladiator “Are you not entertained?” If regarding your preparation for the bar exam you answered ‘no’, it might be time for a change. Experts agree that, when possible, combining entertainment with education leads to better outcomes. In fact, as this concept has become more well-known, some have even given it a nickname: Edutainment. Cheesy as a term as it may be, the results are worth it. Edutainment improves motivation This one feels like a no-brainer. The more enjoyable something is, the more motivating it is to keep doing it. Theoretically and academically speaking, there are two types of motivation: intrinsic and extrinsic – and, when done correctly, edutainment can improve both. Intrinsic motivation is “doing an activity purely for the joy of doing it” while extrinsic motivation is based on external rewards or punishments. Let’s be honest, sometimes (read: often) the hardest part of studying for anything, and certainly for the bar exam, is mustering up the motivation to just do increased motivation something every law student should shoot for. Traditional academic settings and forms of study tend to focus only on extrinsic motivation through grading and ranking systems and ignore the opportunity to use intrinsic motivation – which is where edutainment comes in. Study materials and academic experiences that are entertaining naturally boost intrinsic motivation consequently enhancing the study experience and improving results. An entertaining reward system through gamification can also be an effective (and fun!) way to improve extrinsic motivation.

Edutainment improves retention And that’s not all. Edutainment has also been proven to improve retention According to ELM Learning, an eLearning agency, most learners have short attention spans and entertaining content can be an effective way to reenergize students and keep them engaged ensuring they receive the necessary information. In fact, involving more senses always leads to more active learning – a concept that is equally true for adults as it is for children. Studies show that edutainment can enhance “students’ academic achievement and retention” and that dopamine, a feel-good chemical released in the brain when you’re having fun, also stimulates memory and retention. And don’t forget, humorous videos specifically have also been proven to improve short and long-term retention. In other words, is it okay for studying to actually be fun? Not only is it okay, but it’s literally more effective. Bonus! It’s good for your health It’s no secret that it’s easier to study when you’re feeling good, but what if it was your study that could make you feel good? If your study program itself is enjoyable, you can have the best of both worlds. According to the Cleveland Clinic, laughing, relaxing, or watching a show you like are all proven ways to boost your endorphin levels which leave you feeling more relaxed and are proven to improve your physical and mental health.

What about bar prep?

Here at Lawflix we believe that studying for the bar exam doesn’t have to be boring or tedious. We understand and believe the research….and we also just really like books, movies, and entertainment. We’re proud to offer the most entertaining bar prep materials on the market and look forward to helping you enjoy the process of studying for the bar.

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