Final answer:
It is less effective to memorize a list of terms in one session compared to spreading study over multiple days, because spacing out studying supports better memory consolidation and long-term retention. Ebbinghaus's research and the levels of processing theory support the use of distributed practice and elaborative rehearsal as more effective memorization techniques.
Step-by-step explanation:
No, it is not best to try and memorize a list of terms in one session as opposed to over multiple days. Hermann Ebbinghaus's research on memorization, specifically the forgetting curve, shows that memory for new information decays quickly, often with significant loss happening within the first 24 hours. To enhance retention, distributed practice is recommended.
According to the levels of processing theory by Fergus Craik and Robert Lockhart, deeply processed information is more likely to be retained. Strategies such as elaborative rehearsal and the self-reference effect can transform superficial memorization into understanding and retention. Importantly, distributed practice over multiple days provides time for memory consolidation, making it a superior method compared to cramming in one session.
Effective study techniques that leverage these concepts include organizing information into categories, using flashcards, connecting new information to existing knowledge, and reviewing materials over time. These methods can vastly improve the efficiency and efficacy of studying.