🔀 Definition & Core Concept
When we talk about interleaving, we mean mixing up the topics or the types of problems during the study session, rather than doing one subject block followed by another.
🆚 Contrast with Blocking
In contrast to the blocking practice method, where similar problems are grouped together, interleaving randomly scatters different types of problems, thus preventing learners from relying on surface cues.
🧠Enhanced Discrimination Learning
Interleaving compels learners to figure out the problem-solving techniques that are relevant to the problems, thus boosting their capacity to differentiate the concepts more clearly.
📊 Superior Long-Term Retention
The studies confirm that the interleaved practice leads to better long-term retention and transfer of knowledge as compared to methods based on blocked practice.
⚡ Increased Cognitive Effort
Interleaving makes it necessary for students to be more cognitively engaged as they have to continuously recall and apply different knowledge frameworks during the sessions.
📚 Applicable Across Disciplines
Interleaving method is an effective tool in mathematics, sciences, languages, sports, thus making it a flexible and reliable learning strategy based on evidence that can be applied in different areas.
💡 Feels Harder but Produces Better Results
Interleaving, though it feels more difficult and brings slower immediate performance gains, it still provides a significant advantage in test performance and continues to be valid in everyday applications.