Long-term outcome of learning and memory in children following severe closed head injury.

Seventeen children aged 5-16 years old (M = 11.3, SD = 2.97, Range= 6.25-16.00) were assessed between 4-5 years post-severe closed head injury, using the Wide Range Assessment of Memory and Learning (WRAML). Compared to age and sex matched controls, this group demonstrated deficits in the ability to learn new information, particularly their rate of learning. Deficits were more apparent with verbal than visual material. There were no indications of differences in delayed recall as measured by the amount of information lost nor in recognition memory. Results indicate that retrieval deficits may be an important component of memory difficulties in severe closed head injury. Educational implications are considered.