Spaced Learning
Overview
Learning and studying information across multiple sessions that are spaced, or distributed in time, can promote learning and long-term retention of both basic and conceptually complex facts and concepts. Repeated review of the same material either through study or formative assessments across time can support learning of core components of adult literacies, as well as promoting application and transfer of learned skills.
Use It In Your Learning Environment
Instructors can incorporate a brief daily review of concepts that were learned earlier, provide assignments that re-expose students to previously learned information, or give quizzes that are cumulative. They can also support learners in spacing out their own learning by helping them plan their studying and by promoting the benefits of spaced learning- as it works best if it is the learner's preferred method of study. It is important to note that the quality of the initial encoding may determine the effectiveness and benefits of spaced learning through repetition. That is, If the learner does not correctly learn a concept initially, then further practice could unintentionally reinforce bad habits, misunderstandings, or misconceptions. Pairing spaced learning with immediate feedback could help reinforce accurate initial learning to maximize the benefit of spaced learning.
Product developers can design quick reviews of concepts and skills that have been introduced, and space practice across time to enhance retention. Products providing immediate feedback with each learning experience will support accurate understanding and effective spaced learning. Interleaving concepts when presenting new material during classroom or online instruction naturally creates spaced practice. When learners can repeat activities in products at any time, it allows them to create their own spaced learning while supporting Long-term Memory.
Additional Resources
Additional examples, research, and professional development. These resources are possible representations of this strategy, not endorsements.
Factors Supported by this Strategy
More Instructional Approaches Strategies
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When designing instruction for adults, expectations and goals should be clearly outlined to help learners focus on the material and make plans for success.
Competency-based learning is self-paced, focused on mastery, and centered around demonstrating learning outcomes and skills rather than where or how they were attained.
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Teaching learners how to effectively search the internet is critical for helping them learn how to find accurate and relevant information and aids in developing information literacy.
Direct instruction in math strategies may support some adult learners once conceptual understanding is in place.
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Adult learners who are struggling with Foundational Reading Skills, including decoding and phonemic awareness, can benefit from explicitly learning phonics skills in an educational setting.
Seeing and using new words repeatedly and across contexts is critical for vocabulary acquisition.
Formative assessment is "assessment for learning" rather than "assessment of learning".
Opportunities for students to practice skills in context, with instructor support and also independently, helps to move concepts and ideas into Long-term Memory.
Intentionally incorporating voice and choice into adult learning experiences is critical for making learning meaningful and relevant.
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Mindfulness is a practice to create internal balance and a sense of being present in the moment.
Instruction and training presented in multiple formats allows learners to activate different cognitive skills and Background Knowledge that are necessary to remember procedural and content information.
Using multiple methods of assessment can help educators gain a comprehensive understanding of learner progress across a wide range of skills and content.
When instructors ask questions or have learners create questions before introducing a text, they activate interest, increase Motivation, and help them assess what they already know about a given topic.
Process-based writing focuses on how learners brainstorm, outline, draft, and revise their writing and is most effective when paired with feedback, especially for English language learners.
When instructors are able to provide context, and connect math concepts to an adult learner's world, math can be seen as relevant and applicable to their daily lives and work- a core aspect of adult Numeracy.
A strengths-based approach is one where educators intentionally identify, communicate, and harness learners' assets to empower them to flourish.
