Optimization of Learning, the Master's Thesis presented at Technical University of Poznan, summarizes the early work over SuperMemo, development of first versions of SuperMemo for DOS, and includes a couple of words by the author of the method on the future of repetition spacing in education.
The full text of the dissertation can be found on SuperMemo CD-ROM titles (e.g. Cross Country or Video English). Below only the table of contents is presented for providing a general insight into the subject matter. Hyperlinks indicate related texts available at this site that are based on but not the same as the original. In particular Summary has been corrected and updated with new terminology.
Technical
University of Poznan
Computer Science Center
specialization: Programming Techniques and Information
Systems
individual specialization: Application of Computers in Human
Biology
Piotr A. Wozniak
A new approach and computer application
Master's Thesis
Supervisor:
Prof. Zbigniew Kierzkowski
Poznan 1990
Contents
1. Introduction
2. General principles of the SuperMemo method
3. Account of research leading to the formulation of the SuperMemo method
3.1. Determination of the approximate function of optimal intervals
- Experiment on the influence of various repetition spacing patterns on the effect of repetitions on knowledge retention (Jan 31, 1985 - Aug 2, 1986)
- Experiment intended to approximate the length of optimal inter-repetition intervals (Feb 25, 1985 - Aug 24, 1985):
- Algorithm SM-0 used in repetition without a computer
3.2. Application of a computer to improve the results obtained in working with the SuperMemo method
- Algorithm SM-2 used in the computer-based variant of the SuperMemo method and involving the calculation of easiness factors for particular items:
3.3. Further improvement of the computer-based SuperMemo method: modification of the function of optimal intervals
- Algorithm SM-4 used in SuperMemo 4.0:
3.4. Further improvement of SuperMemo: introduction of the matrix of optimal factors
3.5. Random dispersion of optimal intervals
3.6. Improving the predetermined matrix of optimal factors
3.7. Propagation of changes across the matrix of optimal factors
3.8. Evaluation of the SM-5 algorithm
3.9. Forgetting rate in case of the cessation of repetitions
4. Description of an exemplary software implementation of the SuperMemo method
5. Simulation of the memorization process conducted along the SuperMemo schedule
5.1. Measurement of workloads related to the maintenance of a constant-sized database
5.2. Measurement of the progress of a student who works the same amount of time everyday
5.3. Measurement of the forgetting rate after ceasing repetitions
6. Strategic prerequisites of effective work with SuperMemo
7. Using SuperMemo without a computer
8. SuperMemo in the eyes of users
9. Application of SuperMemo in stochastic learning
9.1 SuperMemo-based touch typing training
9.2. Drum training based on the SuperMemo method
10. Physiology and biochemistry of memory in the light of the SuperMemo method
10.1. Location and character of memory
10.2. Stochastic and deterministic learning
10.2.1. Hypothetical model of stochastic learning
10.2.3. Hypothetical model of deterministic learning
10.3. Molecular basis of neuronal plasticity
10.4. Molecular model of memory comprising elements of the SuperMemo theory
- 10.4.1. Biological interpretation of E-Factors
- 10.4.2. Two variables of memory: strength and retrievability
- 10.4.3. Molecular changes in synapses that correspond to variables of memory
11.Model of intermittent learning
11.1. Formulation of the problem of intermittent learning
11.2. Solution to the problem of intermittent learning
11.3. Interpretation of the forgetting curve
11.4. Verification of the model of intermittent learning.
12. A vision of modern education based on SuperMemo
- Universal nature of the process of time-optimal learning
- Particularly intractable educational domains
- Creative thinking
- Précis
- Further research
- Interim summary
Epilogue
Glossary
References
Suggestions for further reading
Acknowledgments