Spaced repetition

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Spaced repetition is a learning technique in which increasing intervals of time are used between subsequent reviews. Alternative names include expanding rehearsal, graduated intervals, repetition spacing, repetition scheduling, spaced retrieval and expanded retrieval. Spaced repetition is not simple rote repetition of phrases. It emphasizes active recall rather than recognition, and uses recall methods of memory such as questioning, free recall, free association, intellective reflection, or prompting using other mnemonic triggers or cues.

Humans differ little in the way their memory works. People with large differences in IQ will often exhibit similar spaced repetition patterns. For example, when we learn a foreign word, most people require a repetition within 1-10 days to ensure 95% retention. The second repetition may already come later. For example, between 2-25 days. After a few repetitions, well structured and meaningful learning material can be repeated with intervals lasting many years.

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[edit] Applications

Practical applications of spaced repetition were first suggested in the book Psychology of Study by Prof. C. A. Mace in 1932.

Pimsleur language courses use spaced repetition techniques, and in the 1970s Sebastian Leitner devised his Leitner system, an all-purpose system based on flashcards.

The SuperMemo repetition spacing algorithm was devised in Poland during the 1980's as a way to remedy a molecular biology student's "frustration of learning progress". The method has been scientifically proven to retain between 90%-95% of all knowledge entered into the process.

More recently, spaced repetition has also been implemented into computer-assisted language learning software. Such software can collect information about student's memory and gradually adapt the optimum spacing of repetitions to individual needs. A typical optimization criterion used in spaced repetition is the requested level of knowledge retention, i.e. percent of knowledge that is to be remembered.

[edit] Prominent researchers

[edit] Computer software using spaced repetition

[edit] Free software/Open source (FOSS)

[edit] Commercial software

  • BYKI Flash-card style learning with pronunciation in 41 languages using proprietary "order-of-presentation" algorithm which aims for a "perfect recall" objective. Free.
  • BYKI Deluxe Non-free version of BYKI (above), which includes authoring and extra activities.
  • Declan Software - Audio Flashcards Audio flashcards software for Japanese, Chinese, Korean, Russian, Arabic, Russian, German, French, Italian & Indonesian. Shareware
  • Flash Card Manager Easy-to-use, optimizes your study time. Windows and Pocket PC
  • Fullrecall uses artificial neural network, which gradually grasps personal memory model
  • Genius A freeware flashcard program for Mac Os X (10.3 and up). Performs fuzzy answer checking and highlights errors.
  • MemoryLifter A freeware flashcard program for Windows. Excellent features such as image, sound, and video support on flashcards. Unicode support. "Correct on the fly" forces correct answers and highlights incorrect spellings.
  • Mental Case Commercial application for Mac OS X. Combines flash cards with repetitive learning, and quick data entry. Supports text and images, including built-in screen shot functionality and web-cam (iSight) capture. Flash card presentations are beautifully presented with themes and attractive transitions.
  • MindBrainer A commercial spaced-learning system for the Pocket PC using 'Graduated Interval Recall' in training and spaced repetition in testing.
  • RecallPlus A 3d Diagrammatic Mapping tool which also tests 'FlashCard' style using spacing effect. This concept mapping hybrid is aimed at students trying to optimise learning/study time use. Won 2005-6 Esc 'peoples choice' award.
  • Studycard Studio A multimedia flashcard application with spaced repetition for Mac OS and Palm OS.
  • SuperMemo [1] A freeware and commercial program that uses spaced repetition.
  • Viaverbi A new shareware flashcard based language learning program for Mac OS X. Uses a promising a spaced repetition algorithm.
  • Vocabulary Trainer - Memorize foreign language vocabulary permanently.
  • VTrain (Vocabulary Trainer) A spaced-learning system used in 40 universities. Shareware.
  • Winflash (Winflash) Award-winning system with Leitner and several other proprietary learning modes. Use PDA, iPod or your regular computer or laptop.

[edit] See Also

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