Encoding variability theory

Encoding variability theory is an attempt to explain spacing effect by changes in the context at memory retrieval. The mere existence of SuperMemo refutes the theory. Items that do not change for years, capitalize well on the spacing effect and perform well in spaced repetition. Random variations of the context might entail benefits, but they do not underlie the spacing effect. The value of context can be seen in knowledge darwinism. It is the semantic anchoring of knowledge that benefits from knowledge darwinism. This anchoring may have secondary effects on spacing and memory stabilization.

See: Myth: Encoding variability theory of spacing effect

This glossary entry is used to explain texts in SuperMemo Guru series on memory, learning, creativity, and problem solving