Revolutionize training: Top 10 spaced repetition platforms and their benefits
Executive Summary: In a world where information overflows, can spaced repetition platforms unlock the door to retaining knowledge for a lifetime? Spaced repetition is a method of helping one develop the skills for recalling information. It is about replaying information at increasingly spaced-out intervals of time. The goal is to help individuals learn, understand, and commit information to long-term memory. Spaced repetition is a highly effective way of learning and retaining information. This article explores how spaced repetition platforms and techniques are improving the field of education and training. This article also highlights the benefits of using spaced repetition platforms, and how they can help organizations improve their L&D. Additionally, this article lists the top 10 spaced repetition platforms which organizations can use to improve their training programs.
Tim woke up to a noisy alarm on a cloudy Wednesday morning. That day, 6:00 AM seemed colder and gloomier than usual. He had been poring over his training course material for nights on end. He sat before masses of pages that described data security and protection, along with details of the newest software his company was using. Yet, after all his work, he wasn’t confident of remembering much. In fact, he was almost sure he did not retain anything he had studied. There was a test that day to assess the successful completion of the training course. Though nervous, Tim dragged himself out of bed. He got dressed and headed to work.
Tim sat quietly at his desk. His teammates crowded the room, buzzing over the reference material. He tried to drown out the sound, but could not tune out the ticking of the clock. Sonia, the L&D specialist in charge of the course, walked into the room at 9:00 AM on the dot. She was empty-handed: no papers, no computer. Tim felt curious. To his delight, Sonia announced the test had been canceled. She also said that the company was going to try out the Spaced Repetition technique, a different method of learning. As she explained this concept, Tim felt like a huge burden was lifted off his shoulders. Sonia mentioned switching to Spaced Repetition platforms and more mobile-driven methods for training. She explained the science behind the technique, and the benefits of using spaced repetition platforms for training corporate teams, just like Tim’s.
A few weeks later, Sonia gathered the team again. Tim was present, looking noticeably happier. The new training techniques had been helpful for him. Sonia began a presentation to show the team how their performance had been since the company began using Spaced Repetition platforms. Almost everyone was completing the course and tests successfully. The team appeared to be well-informed and confident about data security and the new softwares. Tim was certainly enjoying this new method of learning. He didn’t feel intimidated and stressed anymore. The Spaced Repetition technique did wonders to help him remember information for longer periods of time.
Spaced Repetition platforms are certainly an incredible way to make enterprise training more engaging and effective. Let’s understand the concept in more detail.
People forget nearly 90% of what they have learnt within just 7 days, unless the concepts are reinforced. That’s why employees swamped with documents, presentations, and classroom sessions are not likely to learn much.
However, time constraints make it difficult to reinforce vast concepts.
What can you do instead? Arm your employees with one concept at a time. Studies show the human attention span is only 8.25 seconds, so keep your training concise.
RapL is your software for that.
What are spaced repetition platforms?
As we saw in Tim’s situation, endless hours of cramming are rarely effective for learning. Cramming does not allow for the natural process of memory formation. When masses of information are presented in a short, intense period, the brain is not given enough time to properly process and store the information. This results in the information being stored in short-term memory, rather than in long-term memory. Short-term memory has a limited capacity, and the information is easily forgotten. Cramming also leads to stress and fatigue, which can negatively impact learning and memory.
Spaced Repetition learning technique involves reviewing information multiple times, at increasingly longer intervals. The goal of spaced repetition is to help learners absorb and retain information for longer periods of time. This is ensured by reviewing it at the optimal time for retention. Spaced repetition platforms are digital tools that help users implement this technique. Spaced repetition platforms create personalized study schedules and track progress in real time.
Spaced repetition platforms are based on the concept of spacing effect. This is the observation that people remember things better when they practice spaced repetition instead of cramming. This was first documented by German psychologist Hermann Ebbinghaus in 1885, who conducted experiments on himself to memorize verbal utterances. In one study, he found that he could accurately recite 12-syllable sequences after just one day of cramming. However, he noticed that he could achieve the same results, with just half as many practices spread over three days (Settles and Meeder, 2016).
Spaced repetition platforms utilize the method of spaced repetition to enhance memory retention and aid in learning new information. The concept of spaced repetition involves revisiting learned material at increasing intervals of time. Spaced repetition platforms use this concept by presenting users with questions, tasks or information at increasing intervals, to help them retain information over a longer period.
Spaced repetition platforms can be used to learn almost anything, from front-line process knowledge to core product facts and features. They use algorithms that adjust the difficulty level and timing of questions according to how well the user is doing. This ensures they are constantly challenged, but not overwhelmed. With spaced repetition platforms, users can improve their learning skills with ease and efficiency
Let’s look at some benefits of spaced repetition platforms below.
Benefits of spaced repetition platforms
- Increases retention: Spaced repetition platforms increase retention by revisiting learned material at increasing intervals of time. These platforms regularly present users with questions or tasks, adjusting the difficulty and timing based on their performance. This method helps strengthen memory retention, making it easier to recall information over a longer period of time.
- Makes learning time-efficient: The Spaced Repetition approach ensures users spend their time reviewing information they have forgotten, rather than going over already known material. With this approach, employees can learn effectively in a shorter time frame. They can also ensure that the information is retained in their long-term memory. As a result, employees can save a lot of time and effort in the long run.
- Increases employee motivation: Spaced repetition platforms can increase motivation in employees by making the learning process more interactive and engaging. The real-time tracking and analytics store data of the employee’s performance. This approach provides employees with a sense of achievement, as they can see their progress over time. Additionally, spaced repetition platforms can be customized to fit the specific learning needs of employees. This makes the learning process more relevant and interesting to them. This can help increase employee engagement and motivation to learn and improve their skills.
- Enables quick and easy reviews: Spaced repetition platforms allow users to quickly review material they have already learned, and are more likely to have forgotten, in a short amount of time. Additionally, spaced repetition platforms can be accessed on various devices. This makes it easy to review material at any time and place, which can make it more convenient for users.
- Makes learning engaging: Spaced repetition platforms make learning more engaging. Spaced repetition platforms utilize interactive multimedia elements such as images, videos, audio, animations, games, and quizzes. These supplement traditional text-based learning. This approach makes the learning process more interactive and fun, increasing employee engagement and motivation to learn.
Benefits of Spaced Repetition Platforms
To learn more about how spaced repetition can help enterprise training, read this article. Now, let’s look at our list of top 10 spaced repetition platforms
Top 10 spaced repetition platforms
1. RapL
RapL stands out as a leader in the list of top 10 spaced repetition platforms. It presents a unique and cutting-edge solution for enterprise training. RapL uses a thoughtful mix of flipped learning, microlearning, gamification, AI, scenarios, and spaced repetition to provide a highly personalized and tailored learning experience for each individual user. RapL was created in 2019 by a team of experienced innovators, with expertise in software, cloud, and learning solutions.
Conventional training methods present numerous challenges. For instance, having more one-time courses does not ensure learning or retention. This leads to demotivated employees. Identifying knowledge gaps within an organization is also difficult. RapL addresses these issues by using a combination of microlearning and spaced repetition. This approach helps create a dynamic and engaging learning environment that improves workforces.
Read this article to know more about the benefits of using microlearning for business training.
RapL’s innovative approach to learning has proven to significantly increase employee knowledge by 30% in just four weeks. This is with a minimal time commitment of only three to four minutes per day. RapL’s platform employs a unique flipped learning model. This is where questions are presented before answers and explanations. This allows the employee to be tested on their knowledge and confidence first, and receive rationales for their answers later. This approach effectively identifies and instantly corrects individual knowledge gaps.
RapL’s microlearning solution is powered by an AI-driven spaced repetition model. It assesses where an employee is struggling, and provides continuous practice on specific areas. Certain scenarios may be repeated till the user gains mastery in such specific cases. For instance, Logan is having trouble with a specific scenario about engaging with angry customers in a customer service call. The RapL platform will repeatedly present that scenario until Logan can answer it correctly and with high confidence. This approach ensures high retention of knowledge. It also improves employee confidence in their learning, and increases motivation to continue developing their skills.
What people like | What people dislike |
RapL provides a user-friendly and customizable app, with an intuitive and engaging interface. | RapL currently assigns content and tests by role/group. Some users want individual assignments of content; this is planned for future development. |
Various content formats and a gamified model make learning fun and engaging. | Tracking and reporting capabilities are being improved with regular updates. |
Core Features:
- Flip learning model
- AI-based spaced repetition
- Scenario-based learning
- Comprehensive analytics dashboard
- Gamified model
Price:
- Available as a subscription service, tailored to the specific needs of the business.
- Administrators and trainers can try the platform with a free trial and access sample topics created by experts.
Contact us for a demonstration, or a personalized plan based on your requirements.
2. EdApp
EdApp offers a unique and versatile spaced repetition platform. EdApp can be used by a wide range of individuals and organizations, including teachers, course creators, and companies. The platform comes equipped with many great options. These include a comprehensive course library, customizable templates, etc. EdApp also offers a variety of features such as microlearning, and mobile learning.
The Brain Boost feature, in particular, allows for easy implementation of spaced repetition. The user simply needs to select the desired courses, lessons or individual slides. This activates the Brain Boost feature. The platform then automatically triggers follow-up quizzes for learners, after they complete the course for the first time. It also automates the delivery of each lesson.
What people like | What people dislike |
Ease of use | Lack of advanced analytics and reporting |
Ability to create interactive content quickly and seamlessly | Some users have reported technical difficulties |
Free version has some features | Pro version is expensive to some |
Offline access | Navigating user groups and adding voice content is challenging |
Gamification | Limited integrations |
Core Features:
- Interactive content creation
- Gamification
- Personalized learning
- Offline access
- Progress tracking and analytics
Price: Contact EdApp through their website for pricing
3. Mochi
Mochi is a simple, yet feature-rich spaced repetition platform. It enables users to create notes and flashcards for studying, with the help of the platform’s spaced repetition algorithm. It is designed to maximize retention while minimizing study time. The platform has a focus on offline learning, allowing users to input information locally before syncing it to the cloud.
It also boasts features such as Markdown, which makes it easy to format notes into flashcards. Mochi also allows users to link cards and add multimedia elements such as audio, video, and images to enhance the learning experience. The platform also provides a canvas feature that allows users to practice writing or drawing answers.
What people like | What people dislike |
Markdown enabled makes note-taking quicker | Not very customizable |
Offline access | Glitches and bugs |
Media attachments can be embedded | Cards/decks sometimes get deleted |
Core Features:
- Spaced repetition algorithm
- Markdown-enabled
- Offline access
- Built-in dictionaries (for Pro version)
- Text-to-speech using Google’s WaveNet voices (for Pro version)
- Built-in image search (for Pro version)
Price:
- Free version available
- Pro version available with more features
4. Memoo
Like other spaced repetition platforms, Memoo helps learners retain information for longer periods while studying for shorter durations. The spaced repetition feature is implemented through flashcards, making the learning process efficient, fast, and simple.
The software is available on mobile devices and computers, allowing for flexibility in study locations. Progress is saved in the cloud for easy retrieval across devices. Even without an internet connection, the platform is offline-compatible, allowing for uninterrupted study. A unique feature of Memoo is the Custom Math Formula feature. Memoo offers a powerful scientific calculator that allows users to create their own formulas.
What people like | What people dislike |
Simple interface, easy to navigate | Occasional bugs in app |
Beautiful minimalistic design of app | Sign-in/sign-up processes are sometimes long and have glitches |
Creating decks and flashcards is a quick and easy process | No option to import cards from Excel/CSV |
Core Features:
- Spaced repetition
- Flashcards
- Custom math formulas
Price:
- Free to use
5. OttoLearn
OttoLearn is a spaced repetition platform that helps individuals and organizations improve their learning and retention. The platform uses a unique algorithm to determine the optimal intervals for reviewing material. This is based on the learner’s individual performance and progress. The software is available on multiple devices, including desktop and mobile, and syncs across all devices. OttoLearn also offers a wide range of content, including language learning, professional development, and compliance training.
The platform also includes interactive elements such as quizzes, games, and simulations to make learning more engaging. The platform also offers analytics that show progress and performance. This can be helpful for managers and trainers to identify areas where learners need extra support. OttoLearn is a comprehensive spaced repetition platform that can help increase retention and proficiency in a variety of subjects.
What people like | What people dislike |
Diversity of topics | Expensive to use |
Great API back-end integration | Bugs and glitches |
Knowledge cards for self-directed, on-demand learning | Lack of synchronous learning |
Core Features:
- Interactive analytics
- Adaptive algorithms
- Integrated Content Studio
- Mobile-first and desktop-friendly delivery
Price:
6. Ankimono
Ankimono is a spaced repetition platform that offers a unique way to learn and retain information. The platform offers a wide range of subjects, including languages, science, history, and more. Ankimono uses a combination of flashcards, quizzes, and games to make learning more interactive and fun. The platform is available on multiple devices, including desktop and mobile. Ankimono allows users to synchronize their progress across all devices.
Ankimono also has a feature called “Knowledge Tree”. This visualizes the connections between different pieces of information, making it easier for users to understand the material. Additionally, Ankimono offers a feature called “Smart Study”. This adapts to the user’s learning style and provides personalized recommendations for optimal retention. Ankimono also offers analytics that show progress and performance. This can be helpful for managers and trainers to identify areas where learners need extra support.
What people like | What people dislike |
Ability to hand-write answers | Bugs and glitches |
Markdown-enabled | Not very customizable |
Import cards with Excel/CSV | Visual appeal can be increased |
Core Features:
- Spaced repetition
- Markdown-enabled
- Handwriting on screen
- Flashcards available
- Alert notifications
Price:
- Free version available
- Paid versions available
7. Duolingo
Duolingo is a popular spaced repetition platform that specializes in language learning. The platform uses a variety of interactive methods such as games, quizzes and flashcards to make learning fun and engaging. The platform is available on multiple devices, including desktop and mobile. Duolingo provides daily reminders to keep learners on track. Duolingo offers a wide range of languages to learn, from popular languages such as Spanish and French to less common languages such as Klingon and Esperanto.
The platform also offers a variety of features such as grammar explanations, listening exercises, and conversation practice. These help learners improve their language skills. Duolingo also has a strong emphasis on gamification, which is a way to motivate learners to continue with the course and track their progress. Duolingo is one of the most popular language learning platforms around the world. It is widely known for its fun and interactive way of teaching languages.
What people like | What people dislike |
Interactive and engaging exercises | Limited grammar explanations |
Wide range of languages offered | Limited features in the free version |
Duolingo stories | The app is more focused on consumers |
Progressive learning | Ads on the free version can be intrusive |
Core Features:
- Interactive exercises
- Progress tracking
- Leaderboard
- Duolingo stories
- Duolingo for schools
Price:
- Free version
- Paid ‘Super Duolingo’ version with additional features and perks
- 14-day free trial for Super Duolingo version
8. Anki
Anki is a spaced repetition platform that utilizes intelligent flashcards to aid in retention. The software is widely accessible, being available on multiple operating systems and devices with a web browser. It allows users to increase their learning or reduce study time. This versatile platform can be used for various purposes such as language learning, geography, poetry, memorization of faces and names, exam preparation, and even music and science.
It also allows for synchronization of flashcards across multiple devices and the ability to build decks of over 100,000 items. However, it should be noted that users may need to use additional platforms to gather the information needed for studying.
What people like | What people dislike |
Ease of use | Limited content availability |
Customizability | Lack of mobile app updates |
Versatility | Limited collaboration options |
Syncing capability across devices | High subscription costs |
User-friendly interface | Limited support for some languages |
Core Features:
- Flashcards
- Spaced repetition algorithm
- Customizable study decks
- Image and audio support
- Progress tracking
Price: Contact Anki through their website for pricing
9. Memrise
Memrise is a spaced repetition platform that aids in language learning. It utilizes gamification and immersive techniques to improve proficiency. It aims to create an experience that feels like being in a foreign country. It is geared towards language learners, offering the ability to learn up to 23 languages on multiple devices. It is designed to train the long-term memory twice as fast as traditional methods.
The platform focuses on spoken language, teaching everyday conversational phrases. It offers short-term courses for immediate needs such as travel, as well as long-term courses for achieving proficiency.
What people like | What people dislike |
|---|---|
Interactive and engaging exercises | Occasional bugs and glitches |
Wide range of languages offered | Lack of comprehensive grammar explanation |
Use of multiple learning modalities (visual, auditory) | Limited features in the free version |
Spaced repetition system | Some people find the app too basic |
Offline mode available | Some users find the Pro version too expensive |
Core Features:
- Interactive exercises
- Flashcards
- Listening and speaking practice
- Spaced repetition system
- Leaderboard and progress tracking
Price:
- Offers a free version
- Paid Pro version with additional features and perks
- 7-day free trial for Pro version
10. Quizlet
Quizlet offers learners step-by-step guides for understanding difficult concepts and solving complex problems. It also offers a wide range of subjects and study sets. This spaced repetition platform uses flashcards that are readily available, allowing for faster exam preparation.
It is particularly useful for teachers looking to enhance their students’ engagement. It includes millions of free study modes and in-class games. While it is a great option for classrooms, it may not be the best choice for business training, as other platforms on the list may be more suitable.
What people like | What people dislike |
User-friendly interface | Limited customization options |
Wide range of study materials | Limited analytics and progress tracking |
Easy to create and share flashcards | Ads on the free version are distracting |
Variety of study modes | Paid version is too expensive for students |
Free to use | Some users find the app too basic |
Core Features:
- Flashcard creation and sharing
- Variety of study modes
- Collaboration tools
Price:
- Free version
- Paid Quizlet Go version with additional features and perks
- 7-day free trial
Spaced repetition platforms and techniques are the future of education and training. Companies are eager and interested in adopting this approach to improve their L&D programs. RapL can assist you in this transformation by providing high-quality, engaging content and training platforms that empower employees to challenge themselves and enjoy the learning process. Reach out to us at hello@getrapl.com for more information.
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1. Speak to us if you want a microlearning strategy deep-dive: Microlearning is extremely effective, if approached sensibly. Microlearning is the answer to today’s shortening attention spans and we know how to make learning successful via microlearning. Drop your context here and we shall partner with you for the rest.
2. Lap up more content: We have written some intense literature on how microlearning is the superglue between people and successful business operations. Access all of it here.
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