Translating for Practice: A Case Study of Recommendations from the Wakeful Rest Literature

Translational research--a bridge between research in more controlled settings and application in more complex contexts--is an essential step in developing effective evidence-based practices. Yet, it is rare. Previous lab-based research has recommended wakeful rest (WR)--a relaxed state of mind in the absence of activity--as a classroom intervention to promote memory consolidation and improve both short- and long-term memory. We implemented the proposed WR intervention in a simulated classroom context. The results did not support the recommendations from studies in more controlled settings: WR did not improve participants' short- or long-term memory. We discuss the importance of translational research in applying promising principles to classroom settings before making recommendations for practice.