Spaced practice, also known as distributed practice or spaced repetition, is a learning technique where study sessions are spread out over time rather than concentrated in a single, long session. This method is based on the spacing effect, a cognitive phenomenon where information is more effectively encoded into long-term memory when it’s reviewed at increasing intervals.
Key aspects of spaced practice include:
Regular review: Information is revisited periodically rather than crammed all at once.
Increasing intervals: The time between review sessions gradually increases as the material becomes more familiar.
Active recall: During review sessions, learners actively try to recall information rather than passively re-reading it.
Research has consistently shown that spaced practice leads to better long-term retention compared to massed practice (cramming). It’s particularly effective for learning facts, vocabulary, and procedural skills.
Implementing spaced practice can involve techniques like:
Using flashcards with a spaced repetition system
Scheduling regular review sessions in a study plan
Interleaving different subjects or topics during study sessions
Educators and students can benefit from incorporating spaced practice into their teaching and learning strategies to enhance long-term retention and understanding of material.
