What's the best way to sequence training content for maximum retention?

1 Why sequencing matters

Sequencing matters because it affects how your learners process, store, and retrieve information. If you sequence your content in a way that aligns with how the human brain learns, you can enhance your learners' attention, comprehension, and retention. On the other hand, if you sequence your content in a way that overwhelms, confuses, or bores your learners, you can hinder their learning outcomes and motivation. Therefore, you need to plan your sequencing carefully and strategically to optimize your training effectiveness.

2 How to sequence by complexity

Sequencing your content by complexity is an effective way to ensure that your learners have a solid foundation for further learning. This method involves breaking down the content into smaller chunks or modules and arranging them from the easiest to the hardest. To do this, you should first identify the learning objectives and outcomes of your training program. Then, arrange the content accordingly and review and test the sequence to make sure it is logical and coherent. This approach also helps learners avoid cognitive overload by limiting the amount of information they have to process at once.

3 How to sequence by relevance

Sequencing your content by relevance is a great way to capture your learners' attention and show them how your training relates to their real-world situations. To do this, you should first analyze your learners' profile and preferences, then identify the content that is most applicable and valuable for them. After that, arrange the content in a way that highlights its benefits and implications. Finally, review and test the sequence to make sure it is engaging and meaningful. This approach will help your learners transfer their learning to their work or life contexts, which is the ultimate goal of any training program.

4 How to sequence by variety

Sequencing your content by variety is a great way to create a dynamic and diverse learning experience. This method can cater to different learning styles and preferences, while also activating different cognitive processes and skills, which can improve learners' outcomes and retention. To sequence by variety, select content, activities, and feedback that are appropriate and effective for your objectives. Choose different formats and media to present your content, such as text, images, audio, video, etc., and alternate between individual, pair, group modes of interaction. Balance between different levels of difficulty, challenge, and feedback when sequencing your content. Finally, review and test the sequence to ensure it is balanced and coherent.

5 How to sequence by spacing

A fourth way to sequence your content is by spacing, which involves distributing the content over time, rather than cramming it in one session. This method leverages the spacing effect, which states that spaced learning leads to better retention than massed learning. It also helps learners consolidate their memory and recall, and avoid forgetting and interference. To sequence by spacing, you should first determine the optimal duration and frequency of your training sessions based on your content and learners. Then, divide your content into manageable and meaningful segments or units and schedule them with appropriate intervals and breaks. Finally, review and test the sequence to ensure its feasibility and effectiveness.

6 How to sequence by feedback

When sequencing your content, integrating feedback throughout the training program, rather than only at the end, can be beneficial. This way, you can provide learners with timely and constructive feedback that can help them monitor their progress, correct mistakes, and improve performance. Additionally, this type of sequencing can help reinforce learning and confidence, as well as foster a growth mindset. To sequence by feedback, you should first define the criteria and standards for your feedback. Then, choose the sources and methods for your feedback such as self, peer, or instructor. It is also important to align the feedback with the content, activities, and learning objectives and outcomes. Finally, review and test the sequence to ensure it is consistent and supportive.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?