What is it called when new events displace something that had been previously learned?

The correct term for when new events displace previously learned information is known as interference. This phenomenon occurs when newly acquired information makes it difficult to recall older information, or vice versa. Interference can be categorized into two types: proactive interference, where older information interferes with the learning of new information, and retroactive interference, where new information disrupts the retrieval of previously learned material.

In the context of learning, understanding interference is crucial as it highlights how our cognitive processes can be affected by the influx of new data, emphasizing the importance of effective study methods to minimize the impact of interference on long-term memory. This concept plays a significant role in educational settings, illustrating why some students may struggle to recall information they once knew well after learning new concepts that overlap or contradict previous knowledge.