Final answer:
Ebbinghaus discovered a pattern in memory retention called the forgetting curve, which showed rapid loss of memorized information shortly after learning, followed by a slower rate of forgetting. Modern strategies for improving retention include context application and the distinctiveness of the material.
Step-by-step explanation:
In Hermann Ebbinghaus' studies involving recall of nonsense syllables, he discovered a pattern now known as the forgetting curve. Through meticulous experimentation using lists of nonsense syllables, Ebbinghaus measured his retention over various intervals, from 20 minutes up to 30 days. His observations concluded that on average, 50% of memorized information is lost after 20 minutes, and this increases to 70% after 24 hours. His work demonstrated that memory for new information decays quickly and then levels off over time. Modern studies suggest that using context or distinctiveness, such as saying a word out loud or placing it in a meaningful sentence, can greatly improve memory retention.