The Power of Effective Study Techniques: Strategies to Boost Learning and Retention
Spaced Repetition – A Key to Long-Term Retention
When it comes to studying, forgetting what we’ve learned is one of the biggest hurdles students face. Enter spaced repetition—a powerful technique designed to beat the forgetting curve and make learning stick for the long term. At Fundamentals First Learning Tutors Edmonton, we recommend spaced repetition to help our students retain material more effectively and achieve consistent progress in their studies. Here’s how this technique works and how you can start applying it today.
What is Spaced Repetition?
Spaced repetition is a study method that involves reviewing information at carefully spaced intervals over time, rather than cramming all at once. This technique takes advantage of our brain’s natural memory processes. Research shows that information reviewed multiple times, spaced out over days or weeks, is more likely to stick in our long-term memory.
For example, if you learn a new concept in history today, you might review it again the next day, then three days later, then a week later, and so on. By extending the interval between each review, you’re helping your brain reinforce that memory over time.
Why Spaced Repetition Works
The technique of spaced repetition is built on the science of the forgetting curve, which describes how quickly we forget information after initially learning it. The longer we go without reviewing what we’ve learned, the more we tend to forget. By revisiting material just as we’re about to forget it, spaced repetition helps move that information from short-term to long-term memory.
Studies show that spaced repetition is far more effective than cramming, which only leads to short-term memory retention. That’s why, at Fundamentals First Learning Tutors Edmonton, we encourage students to space out their study sessions for more effective, lasting learning.
How to Implement Spaced Repetition in Your Study Routine
Getting started with spaced repetition is easy, and there are a few approaches to fit different learning preferences:
- Manual Approach with a Planner: If you enjoy working with paper, use a planner to schedule your reviews. After studying a new topic, write down a plan to revisit the material the next day, then after three days, then after a week, and so on. Keep adjusting the intervals as you gain confidence in the material.
- Digital Tools and Apps: Many apps, like Anki and Quizlet, offer built-in spaced repetition features. They automatically track when you need to review each flashcard or concept, making it easy to incorporate spaced repetition into your daily routine.
- Incorporate into Class Notes: After each study session, go back to your notes and highlight key points. Schedule short review sessions for these highlights, gradually spacing them out. For example, you might revisit a concept after your next class and then again in a week.
Why Spaced Repetition is Ideal for Long-Term Success
At Fundamentals First Learning Tutors Edmonton, we see the positive impact of spaced repetition on our students’ learning journeys. This technique not only boosts retention but also builds confidence and reduces last-minute cramming, making studying less stressful. With spaced repetition, students gain a stronger grasp of their material, setting them up for academic success and lifelong learning.
Start Using Spaced Repetition Today
Learning isn’t just about absorbing information—it’s about making it stick. By incorporating spaced repetition into your study routine, you can transform your approach to learning and see real improvements in your retention and understanding.
Stay tuned for Part 2 in our series, where we’ll dive into Active Recall and explore how it can supercharge your study sessions. At Fundamentals First Learning Tutors Edmonton, we’re committed to sharing effective study strategies that empower students to reach their full potential!
