What is the advantage of using flashcards for vocabulary study?

Using flashcards for vocabulary study is advantageous primarily because they promote active recall and spaced repetition.

Active recall refers to the process of retrieving information from memory, which enhances retention and understanding. When students use flashcards, they actively engage with the material by attempting to remember the meaning of a word or concept before flipping the card over to check their answer. This method significantly strengthens memory retention compared to passive techniques, such as simply reading notes.

Spaced repetition complements this by allowing learners to review information at increasing intervals over time, which optimizes memory consolidation and helps anchor vocabulary in long-term memory. By revisiting flashcards at strategically spaced intervals, learners can reinforce their knowledge efficiently, reducing the likelihood of forgetting.

In contrast, some alternatives, while potentially useful, do not engage the learner as actively as flashcards do. For instance, passive learning methods do not require active engagement, diminishing their effectiveness in promoting long-term retention of vocabulary. Additionally, while there may be various tools for studying math, flashcards are versatile tools that extend well beyond that subject field. Therefore, the active processes instigated by flashcards make them particularly beneficial for vocabulary study.