Outsmarting the Forgetting Curve with Microlearning

How to Outsmart the Forgetting Curve with a
Microlearning Platform
The Forgetting Curve and Its Relevance for Trainers: A
Modern Approach to Learning Retention
In the ever-evolving world of learning and development (L&D), one
constant challenge persists: how to help learners retain

knowledge over time. Despite best efforts and resources poured
into corporate training programs, much of the content is forgotten
shortly after delivery. The culprit? A century-old psychological concept
known as the Forgetting Curve.
Understanding the Forgetting Curve — and how to combat it — is
critical for trainers, educators, and HR professionals striving to create
impactful and sustainable learning experiences. Fortunately, today’s
technologies, especially microlearning platforms like MaxLearn,
offer modern solutions that address the challenge head-on.
What Is the Forgetting Curve?
The Forgetting Curve was first identified by German psychologist
Hermann Ebbinghaus in the late 19th century. Through
self-experimentation, he discovered that newly acquired information
decays rapidly from memory unless it is consciously reinforced.
According to Ebbinghaus’ findings:
● Learners forget over 50% of information within an
hour.
● Up to 70% is lost within a day.
● Almost 90% is forgotten within a week.

The Forgetting Curve is not just a theoretical concept — it’s a
measurable decline in memory retention over time. The implications
for corporate training are clear: without strategic reinforcement, even
the most engaging or high-quality training content can become
ineffective.
Why Should Trainers Care?
For L&D professionals and corporate trainers, the Forgetting Curve
highlights a critical gap in traditional training methods. A one-time
workshop, onboarding session, or course — no matter how well
designed — is insufficient for long-term retention. If knowledge is not
reinforced, it simply fades.
This has real-world implications:
● Reduced training ROI: Companies invest heavily in
training programs, yet much of that investment is lost when
learners forget what they’ve learned.
● Compliance and safety risks: In industries like
healthcare, finance, or manufacturing, forgetting key
protocols can lead to compliance issues or safety hazards.
● Performance setbacks: Employees who fail to retain
critical knowledge underperform or make costly mistakes.

The Science of Reinforcement
While forgetting is natural, it can be countered through well-timed
reinforcement techniques. Research shows that spaced
repetition, retrieval practice, and microlearning can
significantly boost retention and performance.
Spaced Repetition
Spaced repetition involves revisiting learning content at strategic
intervals. By spacing out the exposure to information over time, the
brain is prompted to work harder to retrieve it, strengthening neural
pathways and improving long-term retention.
Retrieval Practice
Instead of simply reviewing content, learners are prompted to
actively recall information. Quizzes, flashcards, and scenario-based
questions help reinforce learning by stimulating the brain’s memory
muscles.
Microlearning

Microlearning delivers content in small, digestible chunks that are
easy to absorb and apply. Short lessons — especially when paired with
gamification and spaced repetition — are proven to be more effective
than lengthy training sessions.
MaxLearn: Combatting the Forgetting Curve
MaxLearn is a next-generation AI-powered microlearning
platform specifically designed to address the Forgetting Curve. By
integrating modern learning science with advanced technology,
MaxLearn empowers organizations to drive real behavior change and
learning retention.
Here’s how MaxLearn tackles the challenge:
1. Spaced Reinforcement Engine
MaxLearn’s built-in reinforcement engine uses AI algorithms to
deliver spaced repetition content tailored to each learner. This
personalization ensures learners revisit information at optimal
intervals — just as they are on the verge of forgetting it.
2. Active Recall with Smart Assessments