The first step toward academic success is ensuring your child develops the best study techniques.
Spaced studying is one of the most successful methods available to students of all ages. In this article, we discuss one of those techniques called Space Practice. We’ll also provide compelling reasons why you need to use the spaced learning method. Let’s begin.
What is spaced practice?
Spaced practice definition can be explained in several ways, and we’ll do just that. It is a study approach in which students revisit content over time. This allows them to connect ideas and concepts, allowing information to be built upon and readily recalled afterward.
The spaced repetition study method is one of the most efficient study techniques where you refresh the learning information over time. This allows your mind to form connections between diverse thoughts and ideas, building on your previous knowledge. The primary goal of the spacing study method is to allow the learner to forget past learning before revisiting the same subject.
Understanding the spaced practice method
After nearly forgetting something, the human brain works even harder to recollect the same knowledge – this is popularly referred to as the forgetting curve. The forgetting curve is the amount of knowledge lost over time when our brains do not attempt to recall it. It is not enough to learn anything once. For the content to truly remain, you must revisit and review it regularly. Most of what you learn will be gone in a couple of days or weeks unless you strive to revisit it.
This is when timed practice comes into play. Think of the same technique bodybuilders use. When muscles are tensioned, they have micro tears, which make them grow back even stronger. In the same way, when learners review the content, their brains get a workout from spaced learning and effective retrieval practice.
When a person studies frequently, all of his knowledge is stored in his short-term memory. The use of intervals between study sessions is an effective learning approach. It helps content to be stored in the student’s long-term memory rather than short-term memory.
Learners will not need to work harder to recall the knowledge that led to the intensive learning phase. Instead, they will be able to rapidly recollect the information from their long-term learning. This is the primary reason that spaced retrieval practice works.
In the first few learning sessions, the learner’s mind would be working hard and tirelessly to recall the information. It will become easier to recall and build upon as they revisit the information.
What are the steps of using spaced practice?
Spaced repetition memory technique can be practiced in the following four steps:
- Planning
- Study and review
- Recalling
- Continue to recall
Space practice study is beneficial because of its ability to increase recollection and retention after previous forgetfulness. Although forgetting to remember seems counterproductive, the whole process creates enough presence to make such information easily accessible in the future.
How to study using spaced practice
Below, we provide the steps to follow when using the space practice technique for study.
- Plan a spaced repetition timetable
Create a timetable based on your syllabus, then start preparing for the test early and continue to do so at regular intervals until the exam day. Your learning should be spread out over days or weeks. Follow through on your strategy after you’ve designed a “spaced” learning timetable and maintain adherence to the timetable and avoid missing sessions. You will be better prepared to attain a strong score on exam day.
- Spend time reviewing your course
Carry out your ideas by scheduling many learning sessions at regular intervals. Unlike cramming, each session does not need to be lengthy or cover all course subjects. Your course materials should also be divided up across the many sessions.
- Concentrate on both new and old course materials
As you study for a test, be sure to learn new information and go back and practice the subject you have already studied. This reduces forgetfulness and helps your memories remain fresh. It might also be beneficial to devote a specific amount of time to new and old practices. This helps you achieve a nice study balance.
Conclusion
The space practice technique is much better than cramming the learning material in one study session. Space practice reduces forgetfulness and helps you get a solid grasp of your study material. However, it requires discipline and consistency, so always remember to do your best.
