What term describes a kind of forgetting where new information interferes with the retrieval of previously learned information?

The concept described in the question refers to retroactive interference. This phenomenon occurs when newly acquired information disrupts the ability to recall information learned earlier. For instance, if a student learns a new language after already studying another, the new language may interfere with their ability to remember vocabulary or grammar from the first language. In this way, the new information acts as a kind of distraction, making retrieval of the older information more difficult.

Proactive interference, on the other hand, involves older memories impacting the retention of new information, highlighting the distinct roles these types of interference play in the learning and memory process. The other options, free recall and delayed recall, pertain to different aspects of memory retrieval and do not involve the interference between new and old information.