What characterizes massed practice in learning?

Massed practice is characterized by lengthy sessions of intense study without breaks. This practice involves cramming information in a single, concentrated session rather than breaking the study time into shorter, spaced-out intervals. Research in educational psychology suggests that while massed practice can lead to short-term retention of information, it often does not result in long-term learning compared to spaced practice, where study sessions are distributed over time.

This intense focus during massed practice can sometimes lead to fatigue, decreased motivation, and diminished returns in understanding the material over extended periods. It is important for learners to be aware of these differences in practice strategies to optimize their study techniques and enhance overall retention and understanding of the material being learned.