The challenges of memory and retention
Forgetting is normal. Actually, in most situations forgetting is the rule; remembering is the exception. Will you remember this post tomorrow? I hope you will, but most likely a fear you won’t. Let me tell you why.
A German psychologist named Hermann Ebbinghaus started experimenting with memory in the 1800s. He developed an experiment in which he had to study a series of non-sense syllables and later determined how many he could remember (and how quickly he would forget). Ebbinghaus experiments lead to what we called The Forgetting Curve Theory.
According to this theory, one hour after you have learned totally new information, chances are that you could forget as much as one half of that information. By the next day it could be as much as two thirds.
In terms of classroom learning it could be represented like this:
Multiple factors affect how much information you can retain. And when you take multiple classes you’re exposed to a significant amount of totally new and diverse information. There’s a big chance you will not remember all of it during your exams, but there are a few strategies you can implement to improve your ability to retain information.
- DO NOT CRAM. Form the habit of studying in small blocks of time.
- Study the same information several times.
- Read before class.
- Take notes during class, even if your professor provides you a handout or notes.
- Review your class notes and materials regularly (even if your class doesn’t meet every day).
- Immediately after getting out of class (or as soon as possible on the same day) write a small summary of everything you can remember from that class.
- As you go learning new material, test yourself regularly, and do practice testing when your exams are approaching.
With time and practice you’ll witness how much you can gain with just a little more effort. The following video provides some suggestion of health habits you should build to improve your memory and retention.
