How to Beat the Forgetting Curve

As learning and development professionals, our ultimate goal is to create effective training programs that result in long-term retention and application of knowledge. However, we often face a common challenge known as the forgetting curve. You may be shocked to discover that “the forgetting curve” is not a high-octane action movie from the 90s starring Bruce Willis. But it really should be.

The forgetting curve represents the decline in knowledge retention over time if the information is not reinforced or reviewed. As a result, learners may forget up to 90% of the information they learned within a week of completing a training program.

So, how can we overcome this challenge and ensure that learners retain the information they need? In this blog post, we will chat about a few ways that instructional designers can beat the forgetting curve and create learning programs that actually stick!

Understanding the Forgetting Curve

Before we dive into strategies for overcoming the forgetting curve, it's important to understand what it is and how it affects learning. Who’s in the mood for a little history lesson?

The forgetting curve was first introduced by a guy named Hermann Ebbinghaus, a German psychologist who conducted extensive research on memory and retention in the late 19th century.

Ebbinghaus found that learners tend to forget a significant amount of information shortly after learning it, and the amount of forgetting increases as time passes. According to his research, learners may forget up to 50% of new information within the first hour of learning it, and up to 70% within 24 hours.

This decline in retention continues over time, with learners forgetting up to 90% of the information they learned within a week unless the information is reinforced or reviewed. Plus, if we don't use or review information frequently, it can become buried in our long-term memory and difficult to recall when needed. Wow, that’s bleak.

So, why does the forgetting curve occur? One reason is that our brains prioritize information that is relevant to our daily lives and discards information that is deemed less important. Speaking from our own experience, we don’t remember much from High School Geology 101 but we sure know a LOT about the films of Jeff Goldblum. Why? Well, because Jeff Goldblum is relevant to our daily lives here at IDLance

Strategies for Overcoming the Forgetting Curve

1. Spaced Repetition

One of the most effective strategies for combating the forgetting curve is spaced repetition. This involves reviewing information at increasing intervals over time to reinforce learning and improve retention. For example, learners may review new information immediately after learning it, then again after a day, a week, and a month. This approach allows learners to gradually move information from their short-term memory to their long-term memory, improving retention and recall!

2. Active Learning

Active learning involves engaging learners in activities that require them to actively process and apply new information, rather than simply passively receiving it. This can include activities such as group discussions, case studies, and problem-solving exercises. By actively engaging with the material, learners are more likely to remember it and be able to apply it in real-world situations.

3. Microlearning

Microlearning involves breaking down complex information into smaller, bite-sized pieces that are easier to digest and remember. This can include short videos, infographics, and quizzes that focus on specific topics or concepts. By presenting information in this way, learners are more likely to retain it and be able to recall it when needed.

Applying Strategies in Instructional Design

Now that we've explored some strategies for beating the forgetting curve, how can we apply them in our instructional design process? Here are some hot tips:

1. Use a Blended Learning Approach

Blended learning involves combining different types of learning activities, such as online modules, in-person training, and on-the-job application. By using a blended learning approach, learners are exposed to the same information multiple times in different formats and contexts. Remember, repetition is the secret to recall!

2. Incorporate Interactive Elements

To promote active learning, consider incorporating interactive elements into your training programs, such as quizzes, simulations, and games. These activities can help learners process and apply new information. Plus, it’s just more fun!

3. Provide Opportunities for Practice and Feedback

Learners need opportunities to practice applying new information in real-world situations and receiving feedback on their performance. By providing opportunities for practice and feedback, learners are more likely to retain information and be able to apply it properly. Just remember to keep your feedback as constructive and kind as possible!

Conclusion

As L&D professionals, it's our responsibility to create training programs that result in long-term retention and application of knowledge. By understanding the forgetting curve and utilizing strategies such as spaced repetition, active learning, and microlearning, we can create effective training programs that actually resonate with learners.

Like our friend Hermann Ebbinghaus once said, “Mental events, it is said, are not passive happenings but the acts of a subject.” So get out there and give your learners a reason to act!

And if anyone is interested in writing a script for “The Forgetting Curve,” let us know…

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