The human brain has limitations in storing information for the long term. Since the 19th century, Hermann Ebbinghaus, a German psychologist, discovered a phenomenon known as The Forgetting Curve. His findings showed that after learning something, we begin to forget it quickly. In fact, within the first hour, we can lose more than half of the newly learned information. Without efforts to review or reinforce memory, only a small portion of that information remains in our memory after a few days.

This fact poses a significant challenge in education. If students forget most of what they learn within a day, how can they master material over the long term? Fortunately, further research has shown that various strategies can help improve learning retention and counter the effects of the Forgetting Curve.

Why Do We Forget Quickly?

Biologically, the human brain is designed to filter out information it deems unimportant. This is a natural mechanism that helps us focus on things relevant to daily life. However, in a learning context, this mechanism becomes a challenge because newly acquired academic information is often considered irrelevant by the brain and is quickly forgotten.

Several factors accelerate forgetting:

• Lack of Repetition – Information that is only heard or read once without repetition is likely to be forgotten quickly.
• Minimal Connection to Prior Knowledge – Information that stands alone without being linked to other concepts is more likely to fade from memory.
• Lack of Emotional Engagement or Interest – If a person is not interested in the material being learned, the brain will not prioritize storing it.
• Distractions and New Information – Memory can be replaced by other information if it is not reinforced periodically.

 

Although forgetting is a natural function of the brain, there are various ways to enhance memory retention and make learning more effective. Here are some scientifically proven strategies:

1. Spaced Repetition

This technique involves reviewing information at specific intervals. Instead of studying in one long session, it is better to divide study sessions into smaller parts with spaced intervals. For example, after learning new material today, review it again tomorrow, then in three days, a week, and so on. This method helps the brain recognize the information as important and strengthens it in long-term memory.

2. Active Recall

Instead of simply rereading notes or textbooks, try recalling information without looking at the source. This can be done by answering questions, explaining the material to others, or writing a summary from memory. Studies show that actively recalling information is more effective in strengthening memory than passive rereading.

3. Interleaving (Mixed Learning)

Instead of studying one topic for a long time, try mixing it with related topics. For example, in math learning, after solving some algebra problems, switch to geometry before returning to algebra. This strategy helps the brain recognize patterns and strengthen connections between concepts.

4. Mnemonics and Visual Techniques

Using mnemonic techniques such as acronyms, abbreviations, or stories that connect concepts with unique mental images can help improve memory. For instance, to remember the order of planets in the solar system, many people use the phrase “My Very Educated Mother Just Served Us Noodles” (Mercury, Venus, Earth, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, Neptune).

5. Elaborative Interrogation (Asking and Connecting Concepts)

Instead of just memorizing facts, try asking, “Why does this happen?” or “How does this relate to what I already know?” This technique helps the brain build connections between new information and existing knowledge, making it easier to remember.

6. Pomodoro Technique (Short Study Sessions)

This technique involves studying in short sessions (e.g., 25 minutes), followed by a short break (5 minutes). This cycle is repeated several times before taking a longer break. This approach helps maintain focus and reduces mental fatigue.

7. Using Emotion and Engagement

We tend to remember better when there is emotional involvement. Therefore, making learning more interesting by using stories, real-world examples, or direct experiences can help enhance retention.

8. Teaching Others

One of the most effective ways to ensure understanding is by teaching the material to someone else. This process forces us to reorganize information in a way that others can understand, ultimately reinforcing our own comprehension.

In the context of school and university learning, teachers and lecturers can implement these strategies in various ways:

• Providing Repeated Exercises – Using periodic quizzes to help students review material at specific intervals.
• Encouraging Discussions and Q&A – Helping students connect new concepts with existing knowledge.
• Using Visual and Interactive Media – Videos, diagrams, and simulations can activate different areas of the brain and strengthen memory.
• Breaking Material into Shorter Sessions – Instead of delivering one long lecture, it is better to divide the material into several short sessions with interactive activities in between.

 

The Forgetting Curve shows that without repetition and the right strategies, newly learned information will quickly fade from memory. However, by applying techniques such as spaced repetition, active recall, mnemonics, and various active learning methods, we can improve retention and understanding. In education, implementing these strategies can help students not only remember longer but also deeply understand the material and apply it in real life.