Beating the Forgetting Game: Harnessing Techniques to Boost Learning Retention
Have you ever crammed for a test, only to forget the material as soon as you wrapped up? It's not just your memory failing you—It's the notorious "Forgotting Phenomenon" in action! This is the reality where our minds tend to forget information more rapidly the longer we don't use it. But fear not, this 'forgetting curve' is doable, and we've got the tricks to beat it!
Unveiling the Forgetting Curve
Back in the 1880s, German psychologist Hermann Ebbinghaus championed the notion that forgetting is a real thing, and his studies gave birth to the Ebbinghaus Forgetting Curve, illustrating how quickly our memory erodes over time. Since then, studies have only solidified his findings! Realizing that memory is not a static resource requires adopting novel approaches to learning.
Alright, so how long do we keep that fresh-out-of-the-books knowledge? Ebbinghaus pointed out several factors affecting retention: complexity, significance, and our overall fatigue or stress levels. Regrettably, there's no one-size-fits-all answer to the storage period of our brain's trove of information.
Tackling the Forgetting Curve using Spaced Repetition
Empirical techniques prove handy when it comes to revamping our learning styles. Spaced repetition—a method that calls for regularly reviewing information at varying intervals—is one such technique. The schedule for revisions is flexible, permitting longer breaks between successive reviews with greater understanding. A challenging lecture, for instance, is advisable to review more often compared to an effortlessly grasped unit.
Leaning on the Leitner System
The Leitner System offers a practical approach based on performance, enabling you to schedule your studying by harnessing the power of flashcards. The device: reviewing flashcards with accuracy prematurely sparks further breaks between sessions. Forget the traditional methods and enjoy some old-school handwritten flashcards that even provide additional advantages!
Beyond Frivolous Flashcards
Engaging your brain actively during learning can help recalibrate the forgetting curve. Strategies like tackling complex concepts through Kolb's learning cycle, which relies on experiential learning, or applying critical thinking with methods such as SQ3R (Survey, Question, Read, Recite, Review) can all effectively serve as reinforcements.
Other tried-and-true techniques incorporate active elements like exercises, discussions, and interactive quizzes that make learning a fun, engaging experience. Incorporating these learning styles keeps the brain engaged, improving the chances of retention.
Some enriching resources to explore:
- , John Merrow on the benefits of AR and VR in education.
- , NPR delves into the utilization of games in education.
- , details how stress can affect retention and tips to manage it.
Embrace the Power of Active Learning
Learning should be more than a one-time classroom session. Implementing active learning techniques and transforming your study sessions can revolutionize your retention capabilities. Turn the forgetting curve into your ally and learn in a smarter, fun, and more effective manner!
