Forgetting Curve

Overview & Description:

Proposed by Hermann Ebbinghaus, the forgetting curve describes how information is lost over time when there’s no attempt to retain it. It’s typically represented as a steep decline in retention, which gradually levels off.

Key Points:

• Information is lost rapidly within the first few days after learning.
• The rate of forgetting slows down over time.
• Factors like the relevance of information, stress, sleep, and repetition can influence the curve.

Implications:

1. Education: Understanding the forgetting curve can help educators develop teaching methods and revision schedules to optimize long-term retention.
2. Training: In professional environments, regular refresher courses or training might be more effective than one-off sessions.
3. Memory Research: The curve has implications for studying memory disorders and understanding memory processes.

References:

• Ebbinghaus, H. (1885/1913). Memory: A contribution to experimental psychology. (H. A. Ruger & C. E. Bussenius, Trans.). Teachers College, Columbia University.

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