Without reinforcement, only 22% of training is retained.
How does knowledge retention work?
For learning to truly "stick," new information must be transferred to long-term memory. The brain prioritises information it considers valuable. Enhancing knowledge retention involves strategies that emphasise relevance and repetition.
Spaced repetition science
Cognitive overload is real and pervasive. The brain can only remember 5–7 new pieces of information at a time. Spaced repetition: revisiting information at set intervals over time ensures knowledge is retained. It strengthens neural connections — each spaced interval further reinforces them, leading to long-lasting retention.
Supporting stats
- University of Leeds 2019 proprietary study for Cognexo: 38% more knowledge was retained by Cognexo users vs. those who didn't use it
- Over 70% of users prefer daily micro-interactions rather than annual tests
- Reinforcement delivers improvement in over 75% of business KPIs
Key factors shaping learning retention effectiveness
- Bite-sized learning — reduces cognitive overload
- Motivation — employees retain information they find meaningful; communicate why training is important and how it benefits them
- Fun and engagement — gamification using streaks and leaderboards promotes friendly competition and enhances retention
- Real-life application — connecting theoretical knowledge to real-world examples makes information more memorable
- Multiple learning channels — visual, auditory and kinesthetic formats engage various cognitive processes
Challenges with knowledge retention in the workplace
- Time constraints — employers focus on short-term goals at the expense of long-term development
- Insufficient reinforcement — without regular follow-ups and refreshers, employees forget what they've learned
- Complexity of learning material — some topics require a nuanced, case-by-case approach
Benefits of increased learning and retention
For employees: improved confidence; career advancement; job satisfaction. For employers: increased productivity; higher employee retention; cost efficiency.
Cognexo ROI metrics: productivity hours saved (eliminating the need for annual refresher training — saving clients tens of thousands of employee hours); budget savings from eliminating redundant refresher training through daily bite-sized learning; increased employee retention through regular lifecycle check-ins allowing early identification and resolution of disengagement.
Steps to increase employee learning retention
- Seek new hires with a learning mindset — look for adaptability, inquisitiveness and openness to feedback; highlight commitment to employee development in job listings
- Invest in the right software — features that aid retention include gamification, AI identification of performance gaps, learning in the flow of work, microlearning and continuous learning
