The Ebbinghaus Forgetting Curve, developed by German psychologist Hermann Ebbinghaus in the
late 19th century, explains how memory retention declines over time without deliberate review or
practice. According to Ebbinghaus, learners forget a significant portion of newly acquired information
within the first 24 hours — with as much as 70% of the content slipping away.
The curve illustrates that memory retention drops dramatically unless the learner actively revisits the
content. Without reinforcement, learners are left vulnerable to forgetting, which leads to reduced
training effectiveness, wasted resources, and unmet learning goals.
This is where MaxLearn comes in.
The MaxLearn Methodology: Tackling the Forgetting Curve
MaxLearn’s microlearning platform is built to combat the Ebbinghaus Forgetting Curve head-on.
Through a combination of short, focused learning sessions, spaced repetition, and advanced AI
technology, MaxLearn ensures that knowledge retention is maximized.
Microlearning: The Power of Small, Focused Content Microlearning is the concept of
breaking down content into small, easily digestible units. MaxLearn uses this principle to
present lessons in bite-sized chunks, making it easier for learners to absorb and retain
information. The shorter duration of each learning unit fits well into busy schedules, making
learning less overwhelming while encouraging better focus.
By delivering content in small, frequent bursts, MaxLearn prevents cognitive overload and
supports better memory retention. Research shows that when learners are presented with
manageable amounts of information, their ability to retain and recall knowledge increases
significantly.
Spaced Repetition: Reinforcing Knowledge Over Time One of the most effective ways to
combat the forgetting curve is through spaced repetition. This technique, which involves
reviewing material at increasingly spaced intervals, ensures that knowledge is stored in
long-term memory rather than being forgotten over time.
MaxLearn incorporates spaced repetition into its platform, offering learners the ability to
revisit critical concepts and information at optimal times. By using algorithms that track
learner progress, the platform determines when learners are most likely to forget a particular
topic and schedules review sessions accordingly.
This form of active recall helps solidify information in the brain and prevents it from fading
away, making learning more efficient and effective. Spaced repetition helps learners retain
information for months or even years after they’ve initially encountered the material.