Why do we retain information better when we learn it over a long time period?
Spacing Effect
, explained.What is the Spacing Effect?
The spacing effect demonstrates that learning is more effective when repeated in spaced-out sessions. By repeating and spacing out information individuals learn, they can better recall that information in the future.1
Where this bias occurs
The spacing effect is broadly applicable to many fields, notable in examples of education and business. A typical example of the spacing effect can be seen in different ways students study for courses and exams.
The spacing effect occurs when information is repeatedly learned over a spaced-out long period, resulting in an individual being about to recall better and remember the information being learned. The effect demonstrates that more information is encoded into our long-term memory, when studied in spaced-out sessions, a process commonly referred to as spaced repetition. Students who use flashcards and have study techniques that extend over long periods are utilizing the spacing effect to learn.2 This contrasts with retaining information by massed presentation — a study habit more commonly referred to as cramming, which is the act of intensely absorbing large amounts of information in a short period.2