Definition of flash card

The term "flash card" refers to a type of study aid that presents information in a compact and condensed format. It originated in the late 19th century when American psychologist Edward L. Thorndike developed a learning method known as the "connect-the-dots" technique. Initially, Thorndike's technique involved teaching animals to associate different stimuli with certain responses. To facilitate this process, he created cards with pictures and symbols that would gradually become less detailed and more abstract, culminating in a blank card that required the animal to recall the previously learned association. The success of Thorndike's technique led to its adoption by educators in the 1920s and 1930s. The cards, which were typically made of stiff paper or cardboard, featured a question or prompt on one side and an answer or scoop-up information on the other side. These cards were called "quiz cards" or "question cards" at the time. In the 1950s, a mathematical professor named Robert G. Bork introduced the term "flash card" to describe these study aids, thanks to their ability to produce a quick and immediate response when used during study sessions. "Flash" refers to the way the cards appear in front of the student, presenting information quickly and succinctly for memorization and recall purposes. Today, flash cards continue to be a popular and effective tool for learning and studying, with digital versions widely available for use on computers, tablets, and smartphones. Flash cards have come a long way from their origins, but their essential function remains the same: to help students learn and retain information in a quick and efficient manner.