The brain has its boundaries, particularly when it comes to memory and knowledge retention. However, e-learning professionals can outsmart the forgetting curve and improve comprehension with the help of spaced repetition. In this article, we’ll discuss the basic principles of the spaced learning theory, as well as 6 tips on how to apply it in your course design, creating spaced e-learning.
How to Develop Spaced E-Learning Courses
Spaced learning is attributed to Paul Kelley and is rooted in the “temporal pattern of stimuli” introduced by R. Douglas Fields in 2005. The theory suggests that short bursts of learning spread out over time can prevent cognitive overload and improve memory. Typically, the learning activities are repeated in three separate sessions, interspersed with 10-minute mental breaks. During these breaks, learners participate in “distractor” exercises that take their minds off the subject matter before the next round.
Spaced Learning and Knowledge Retention
The spaced learning theory relies heavily on the “Forgetting Curve“, which was introduced by Hermann Ebbinghaus back in 1885 and which states that information is forgotten over a period of time if it is not reinforced. If individuals do not recall, apply, and reinforce what they’ve learned, it will gradually be erased from their memory banks. Kelley’s spaced learning theory suggests that revisiting the subject matter periodically can help beat the forgetting curve.
As a result, online learners are able to retain more knowledge over a longer time span, especially when they need it the most. For example, if they need to perform a specific work task, they can call upon their pre-existing knowledge to increase productivity. They know that they have the skills and information that are required, thanks to the fact that they’ve practiced the task on numerous occasions. Instead of struggling through it, the process has become second nature to them.
Applying the Spaced Learning Theory in E-Learning
Here are 6 tips that are based on the spaced learning theory’s core principles which learning professionals can use to improve knowledge retention and recall in their e-learning course design.
1. Incorporate Active Recall into Your E-Learning Strategy
One of the cornerstones of the spaced learning approach is active recall. As its name implies, this requires actively applying the acquired knowledge and putting it into practice. For example, instead of simply reading a summary, online learners participate in an e-learning scenario or simulation related to the subject matter. This also allows them to see how the knowledge can be used in the real world, which further enhances memory and retention. Asking a thought provoking question or posing a problem are prime examples of active recall that can improve knowledge retention. Rather than passively listening to ideas, online learners must actively engage with the e-learning content.
2. Use Different E-Learning Presentation Methods
Repetition is essential, but it’s the type of repetition that counts. Avoid using the same e-learning presentation methods repeatedly to convey the information. Use a broad range of e-learning activities, modules, and multimedia to give your online learners the knowledge they need. For example, create videos, simulations, and audio presentations to teach a particular task. This not only helps to prevent online learner boredom but appeals to a wide range of learning types. More importantly, online learners are able to revisit the information in different situations and settings, which allows them to apply it in different ways.
3. Determine the Ideal Time Intervals
The formula for spaced e-learning is 3 sessions interspersed with 2 ten-minute breaks covering other learning objectives before returning to the initial topic. In fact, this is usually the best learning approach for more complex ideas or topics, as it gives online learners a chance to fully absorb the information before the next e-learning exercise.
4. Integrate Study Breaks into the Schedule
Regardless of what subject matter you are teaching, you need to incorporate regular breaks into your course schedule to follow the spaced learning approach. These breaks give your online learners the time they need to commit the information to memory and reflect on the topic. They can also gauge how they would apply the knowledge in the real world, as well as increase their comprehension and understanding of the main ideas. If your course is asynchronous, be sure to include alternative e-learning activities as breaks in the online lessons themselves so that online learners must pause periodically. Otherwise, some online learners may try to rush through the course before they’ve assimilated the information.
5. Create Associations with Pre-Existing Knowledge
Linking new ideas to pre-existing knowledge strengthens mental schema and allows online learners to group related concepts together. In other words, it gives them the chance to acquire new knowledge without having to work as hard. Whenever possible, make associations between what they’ve already learned and the current subject matter. For example, integrate a real world story that ties into a topic you’ve already covered, making sure that you show the underlying connections between the two ideas. This approach also allows online learners to assign meaning to the e-learning content and determine its true value.
6. Create a Multi-Sensory E-Learning Experience
Memorable e-learning experiences appeal to all of the senses and foster an emotional connection. Develop e-learning activities that incorporate touch, sight, and sound, such as simulations and serious games for mobile devices. Online learners might tap on the screen to make their selections (touch), listen to background music and dialogue (sound), and watch images or videos on the screen (sight). Many e-learning authoring tools now feature impressive asset libraries where you can find online interactions and multimedia, like cutouts, animations, and music.
Spaced e-learning gives your online learners the opportunity to absorb and assimilate the information before progressing to the next learning activity. As an added bonus, online learners are able to decrease their stress levels and avoid cognitive overwhelm, which makes the learning experience more effective and enjoyable.
By Christopher Pappas