Pharmacology Retention and Evolving Memory Palaces: How the Method of Loci can be Modified for Medical Students’ Pharmacology Learning

Abstract ID 101439 Poster Board 422 Introduction: The method of loci (MoL), also known as memory palace, memory journey, or mental walk is often used for memory training and retention. This method has been applied by medical students to recall, transfer, and apply knowledge leading to better performance on class assessments, board exams, and in clinical rotations. In this study, we explore the potential uses of Evolving Palaces, a term we coined to mean a visual mnemonic that can be consistently updated and organized as new information is presented. We hypothesize that Evolving Palaces create a better representation of concepts, enhance retention and retrieval, and allow for greater personalization to memorize pharmacological information in medical school compared to existing static memory palaces commonly utilized by visually oriented medical students through commercially available platforms. Methods: Based on literature studies, we utilized the 5 visualization steps in the MoL for creating our own Evolving Palaces. Powerpoint presentation (PPT) was our organization tool to compile multiple visual memory palaces, since PPT allows for unlimited superimposition of images and gives the freedom to reorganize and update slides. Images are chosen based on a strong personal association to a word or concept. Images are automatically processed to remove their background so that the symbol can be cleanly incorporated into the memory palace. We explored two main approaches to improving the effectiveness of Evolving Palaces. The first approach is to build it from the ground up. The process begins by choosing and compiling visual symbols for details about a drug class. A background is then selected to appropriately synthesize a meaningful interaction between the symbols. For example, if a background contains a building with multiple levels, each floor level could symbolize stages in a process. The second approach is to use existing static memory palaces from third parties and modify them by adding more symbols as needed for the benefit of saving time at the cost of reduced personalization. For both approaches, when new information is presented later, visual backdrops and symbols can be added to expand the canvas and keep the information current. Results & Discussion: There are limitations to platforms available through third-party resources. They are not comprehensive enough to cover all the topics in medical school classes, board exams, and clinical rotations, and they do not cover much of the material in standardized question banks. The dilemma is solved by our Evolving Palace, which incorporates new information from resources in real time. Our method fully accounts for the piecemeal nature of the material that is presented for any pharmacology topic. Personalization is a powerful factor in memory retention. Static memory palace services use generic symbols that are not personalized memory hooks for the student. With Evolving Palaces, students utilize their own symbols by drawing from a lifetime of imagery that is personally meaningful such as real-life objects, cartoon characters, historical figures, and more. While both static and Evolving Palaces have strengths and limitations, static palaces do not require much imagination from the learner, whereas Evolving Palaces require imagination and effort to make it personalized. This makes the Evolving Palace an infinitely expandable and updatable visual mnemonic, functioning as a living document that grows more useful and comprehensive over time.