What do students achieve when they process and understand information effectively?

When students process and understand information effectively, they achieve assimilation. Assimilation refers to the process of integrating new information with existing knowledge. It enables students to make connections between what they already know and what they are learning, thus facilitating deeper understanding and long-term retention of the subject matter.

During this process, students do not merely memorize facts but instead relate new concepts to their prior knowledge and experiences. This not only enhances understanding but also allows them to apply this information in practical situations, enriching their overall learning experience.

In contrast, retention is more about the ability to remember information over time, comprehension refers to the understanding of the material at a fundamental level, and application involves using learned information in real-world scenarios. While these concepts are related, they describe different aspects of the learning process, making assimilation the most pertinent answer regarding effective processing and understanding of information.