Distributed Practice
Distributed Practice
Distributed practice or spaced repetition, is a learning approach based on the distribution of study sessions over time compared to doing it all at once. It is the fact that the brain is able to consolidate learning between sessions thus making it more effective than doing everything at once which is massed practice that is the base of this approach.
What are the key benefits of distributed practice?
The key advantages of distributed practice are these: better retention, higher efficiency in learning, and improved application of the learned content. Evidence suggests that for the periodic distribution of study sessions, the strength of memory formation and recall is superior to the effect of cramming. As a matter of fact, a learner who practices a discipline for an hour every day through the week remembers more content than another who studies the same in seven hours at once.
How does distributed practice affect learning efficiency?
When learning is distributed instead of massed, then the general cognitive hypothesis is likely to be true. Allows disciples to review the material over time as a result of this learning method. Thus, this iteration will lead to the student having a deeper cognitive processing. In addition to this, the retention of information is further accomplished and the cognitive load during the study sessions is reduced, which, in turn, helps the students to understand and, also, receive better the concepts. For example, a person who studies a language can be involved in learning words of daily use for 15 minutes instead of practicing them for three hours in one go and this alternate practice will help in getting better language acquisition.
Can distributed practice be applied to all types of learning?
Certainly, distributed practice is a versatile learning approach that can be incorporated into different areas such as studies, skills, and physical training. It is also a great way to tackle memory tasks such as playing a musical instrument, where time-consistent exercises generally lead to the skill acquisition or in a complex field like math where theories are cumulative. For instance, a learner could practice math problems for a few minutes for several days in a week instead of doing it all one time shortly before the test.
What are some strategies for implementing distributed practice?
Distributed practice can be implemented by having learners set specific dates for regular study sessions with the intervals spaced in between, using flashcards over a span of multiple days, and creating specific reminders for reviewing material periodically. A great way to create a steady rhythm is to form a study calendar indicating particular topics to be covered on separate days. Furthermore, incorporating an array of different practice activities, like mixing dissimilar subjects or problem types, can significantly increase the efficiency of distributed practice.