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Memory Case Study

How Arrowsmith Helped Transform a Student’s Memory and Retention

There are many cognitive functions at play when it comes to an individual’s ability to retain information, including; Memory for Information and Instructions, Predicative Speech, Symbol Relations, Quantification Sense, and Lexical Memory.

Memory retention difficulties can arise when there is a weakness in any of these cognitive functions.

The good news is that memory retention difficulties do not have to be lifelong. Explore how Arrowsmith helped Nick, a young student struggling with memory difficulties, overcome his challenges by harnessing the power of neuroplasticity and targeted cognitive programming.

Nick's journey with Arrowsmith showcases the transformative power of targeted cognitive exercises in enhancing memory and boosting confidence. Read the full case study below, and watch Nick's video testimonial to hear his story firsthand.

About Nick

Name: Nick, Arrowsmith Student
Age: 12, School Age
Diagnosis: Memory Difficulties
Program type: Full Time
Time in program: 2 Years

Read the Case Study
The Challenge
The Solution
The Outcome

The Challenge

Nick's memory difficulties posed significant challenges in his academic and personal life. In history class, he struggled to remember crucial information such as the names of places, quotes from famous individuals, and the discoveries of important landmarks.

These lapses in memory made it difficult for him to keep up with his peers and perform well on tests.

In everyday situations, Nick's memory issues were equally debilitating. Simple tasks, like remembering a shopping list, became overwhelming. He would often forget items halfway to the store, causing frustration and a sense of inadequacy.

Nick's memory problems also affected his social interactions and self-esteem. He avoided participating in group activities because he couldn't retain instructions and felt embarrassed about his poor memory.

His test results at school reflected these challenges, as he frequently got answers wrong despite studying hard. This ongoing struggle left Nick feeling depressed and negative, impacting his overall state of mind and well-being.

My mom would ask me, 'Oh, Nick, are you doing okay?' And I'd say, 'Yeah, I'm fine,' but I wasn't okay. I was really depressed and not in a good state of mind. [...] Once I discovered Arrowsmith, I was just through the roof because I knew that someone was dealing with the same problems that I was dealing with. I feel great, I can do work, I can get up and stand in front of an audience and say, 'I'm proud of myself for the first time in, I don't know, five years.
Nick
Arrowsmith Student, Canada

The Solution

Nick's enrolment in The Arrowsmith Program marked a turning point in his battle against memory difficulties.

The Arrowsmith Program leverages the principles of neuroplasticity to offer an alternative to traditional interventions and accommodations. Instead, through neuroplasticity and cognitive programming, The Arrowsmith Program helps individuals - just like Nick - overcome their learning difficulties, transform their learning profile and improve their overall social and mental well-being.

The comprehensive full-time program at Arrowsmith included targeted cognitive exercises designed to enhance Nick’s memory and strengthen all the cognitive functions that were holding him back.

The program focused on:

  • Memory for Information and Instructions: This aimed to improve Nick's ability to remember and follow complex instructions, as well as retain factual information and detail.

  • Motor Symbol Sequencing: This targeted Nick's eye tracking and hand movements, essential for writing.

  • Symbol Relations: This helped Nick develop his understanding of relationships between different concepts, improving his logical thinking, comprehension and memory retention.

  • Non-Verbal Thinking: This focused on enhancing Nick's ability to process and remember non-verbal information, which is important for overall cognitive development.

  • Quantification Sense: This targeted Nick's ability to understand and remember quantities and numerical information, aiding his performance in math and other related subjects. 

Arrowsmith’s approach, based on neuroplasticity, empowered Nick by leveraging the brain’s ability to rewire itself and strengthen the cognitive functions that were holding him back. The program provided a structured, supportive environment where Nick could develop his cognitive skills without feeling overwhelmed or discouraged - strengthening his brain over time.

The Outcome

Nick's progress with Arrowsmith was nothing short of remarkable, showcasing significant improvements in both his academic performance and personal life.

After two years in the program, Nick experienced a transformation in his ability to remember and process information. Here are the key outcomes:

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Improved Memory for Daily Tasks
Nick could now accurately remember a list of items, a task that once seemed impossible. Whether it was a shopping list or school-related details, Nick's memory improved dramatically, allowing him to complete tasks efficiently and correctly. This newfound ability to retain information had a profound impact on his daily life, reducing frustration and boosting his confidence.
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Enhanced Academic Performance
In school, Nick's enhanced memory allowed him to pay more attention in class and engage more fully with the material. He no longer feared tests and group activities. Instead, he embraced these challenges with confidence. Nick's academic performance improved significantly, with fewer mistakes and a deeper understanding of the subjects he studied.
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Increased Participation in Group Activities
Nick's self-esteem and overall mental health saw substantial improvements. He began to participate actively in group activities, sharing ideas and collaborating with peers without fear. Standing in front of an audience and expressing pride in his achievements became a reality, marking a significant shift from his previous state of mind.
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Boosted Self-Confidence
Nick's journey with Arrowsmith not only improved his memory but also helped him develop a more positive outlook on life. His confidence soared, enabling him to stand in front of an audience and express pride in his accomplishments. He felt great about his ability to do work and engage more in tasks.

Since Arrowsmith Nick has flourished as an individual. In December 2023, Nick graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in communications with a major in advertising and digital media. He is now working in the advertising space, is a DJ and music producer in his spare time and is in the process of signing with a music label.

His memory issues are a thing of the past.

Nick's remarkable progress, from struggling with memory to confidently engaging in academic, social and now professional activities, serves as an inspiration to others facing similar challenges. His journey underscores the importance of targeted cognitive interventions in helping students achieve long-lasting success.

I can work in a group now, throwing out ideas. It's really good. I used to sit in a corner during tests, getting answers wrong. Now, I can fly through tests with barely a mistake, which is incredible.

Nick
Arrowsmith Student, Canada