Science of Learning Strategy Series: Article 1, Distributed Practice

Van Hoof, Thomas J; Sumeracki, Megan A; Madan, Christopher R

Abstract

Distributed practice is an evidence-based, learning-science strategy that is relevant to the planning and implementation of continuing professional development (CPD). Spacing-out study or practice over time allows the brain multiple opportunities to process new and complex information in an efficient way, thus increasing the likelihood of mastery and memory. Research from cognitive psychology and neuroscience provide the rationale for distributed practice, and examples of its implementation in health professions education have begun to appear in the literature. If utilized appropriately or extended creatively, some common CPD interventions can fully leverage distributed practice. Through increased understanding, CPD planners can benefit from distributed practice in efforts to improve educational activities, and CPD participants can benefit by making more-informed educational choices.

Citation

Van Hoof, T. J., Sumeracki, M. A., & Madan, C. R. (2021). Science of Learning Strategy Series: Article 1, Distributed Practice. Journal of Continuing Education in the Health Professions, 41(1), 59-62. https://doi.org/10.1097/CEH.0000000000000315

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Acceptance Date: Jul 29, 2020
• Online Publication Date: Oct 9, 2020
• Publication Date: 2021-01
• Deposit Date: Sep 15, 2020
• Publicly Available Date: Apr 10, 2021
• Journal: Journal of Continuing Education in the Health Professions
• Print ISSN: 0894-1912
• Publisher: Lippincott, Williams & Wilkins
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Volume: 41
• Issue: 1
• Pages: 59-62
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.1097/CEH.0000000000000315
• Keywords: Science of learning; distributed practice; distributed learning; spacing; continuing education; continuing professional development
• Public URL: https://nottingham-repository.worktribe.com/output/4905236
• Publisher URL: https://journals.lww.com/jcehp/Abstract/9000/Science_of_Learning_Strategy_Series__Article_1,.99874.aspx