Learner-generated outlines improved memory and comprehension tests on a text by {g=0.59}.
Q. Impact of having instructors provide the outlines, vs. having learners write them?
A. Same benefit for memory, but ~half the benefit for comprehension.
A meta-analysis of studies comparing a group that was asked to generate an outline while reading a text to a control group that was not asked to outline found an average effect size of g+ = 0.59 on memory tests, g+ = 0.59 on comprehension tests, and g+ = 0.52 on writing assignments favoring learner-generated outlining. A meta-analysis of studies comparing a group that read a text containing an outline with a control group that read the same text without an outline found an effect size of g+ = 0.61 for memory tests and g+ = 0.34 for comprehension tests favoring instructor-provided outlining.