Modeling Memorization and Forgetfulness Using Differential Equations

Abstract

{\bf Research Context}: The aim of the study was to use differential equations to model memorization of students based on a given data taking into account forgetfulness.\\
\noindent {\bf Research Methods}: The purpose of this paper was to decipher the rate at which students memorized the stuff that required memorization in the area of axioms and proofs of theorems as well as considering the fact that they will forget some of them along the way. The usage of differential equation was employed to model the trend. The paper contributes to the literature by documenting that students can memorize large number of stuff even beyond their perceived imaginations.\\
\noindent {\bf Conclusion}:  This study employed the usage of differential equations to model the rate at which students could memorize a given number of axioms and proofs, considering the fact that they will forget some of them along the way. Persons who are able to absorb and retain more are able to recollect better than those who can absorb more and retain less.  On the other hand, those who can absorb less and retain more have an upper hand in recollection over those who can absorb more and retain less. Consequently it is better to have a higher retention constant than a higher absorption rate. Factors like the learning strategy, learning materials, learning environment, study mates have either a positive or negative influence on an individual's absorption and retention in the long term.