Spaced Time Effect

What is the spaced time effect?

The spaced time effect is a learning technique in which content is reviewed over intentionally spaced intervals. Rather than distributing learning content in a single session, learning sessions are spaced out over time. This spacing effect leverages the brain’s natural memory processes, more effectively moving knowledge into long-term memory than a one-time “cramming” session. 

Example: To help employees maintain knowledge of industry compliance best practices, our L&D department started using the spaced time effect to distribute learning material. 

Spaced repetition takes the distributed practice method one step further by having learners review content at increasing intervals over time instead of evenly-spaced intervals. 

Benefits of using the spaced time effect

Learning and memory research have shown the spaced time effect to be essential for long-term retention and development. Revisiting material helps learners build a deeper understanding of the material and combats the forgetting curve—our natural tendency to quickly forget new information after just a few hours or days. 

Additionally, training can become more personalized and precise, lowering or eliminating higher costs associated with longer, one-time training sessions. Spaced learning also reduces cognitive load by breaking learning into shorter, more focused chunks. Finally, spaced learning gives learners the chance to re-learn core concepts within different daily contexts, increasing the chances of more effective practical application. 

Spaced time effect implementation

There are two general ways to implement spaced learning: either at evenly distributed intervals or increasing intervals. A typical increasing interval could be one day, one week, and one month after initial learning. Review schedules can be personalized based on performance, accompanied by additional one-on-one support, or embedded into daily workflow where re-learning is most applicable to promote a continuous learning culture.

As an example, warehouse employees may complete an initial workplace safety training course and be scheduled to revisit materials one day, three days, two weeks, and one month later. At each next  interval, content should be focused and presented in a variety of different formats to engage diverse learning needs and preferences.