Why We Forget What We Learn — and How to Fix It

Have you ever walked out of a workshop feeling energised, thinking “That was great!”—only to find, a few weeks later, you can barely remember what it was even about?

Well, you are not alone; the majority of people go through the same thing.

The truth is, unless we actively review or apply what we’ve learned, our brains let it fade. In fact, research suggests we lose up to 90% of new information within a month. It’s not because we’re lazy or forgetful—it’s just how our memory works. This idea goes all the way back to Hermann Ebbinghaus, who called it the Forgetting Curve.

But here’s the good news: we can fight back.

 One of the most effective ways? Making learning personal, emotional, and multi-dimensional. Instead of relying only on slides or lectures, we can tap into different ways people naturally absorb information. Dr. Howard Gardner’s theory of Multiple Intelligences gives us a useful lens for this.

 So, What Does That Actually Look Like?

Every person learns a little differently. Some people love words. Others need visuals. Some need to move. Some need to reflect quietly.

Here’s a quick (human) take on the nine types of intelligence—and how we can bring them into a learning experience:

• Linguistic – Love language? Give them stories to connect with, or let them talk it out in groups or write things down.
• Logical–Mathematical – These folks want structure and logic. Think: models, sequences, or activities that involve reasoning.
• Visual–Spatial – Charts, mind maps, sketches—anything visual helps this group ‘see’ the big picture.
• Musical – For some people, sound is the key. Try using rhythm, music, or even just a memorable phrase that sticks.
• Bodily–Kinesthetic – If they can move, act it out, or do something, it’ll stick better.
• Interpersonal – Let them connect with others. Peer conversations, coaching, or teamwork all work well.
• Intrapersonal – Give time for quiet reflection, journaling, or just thinking alone.
• Naturalistic – These learners spot patterns and systems, often through nature. Analogies from the natural world—or just organised information—can work wonders.
• Existential – They want to know why it matters. Help them see the deeper meaning or real-life impact.

 Why Trainers Should Care

Let’s be honest, most training sessions lean heavily on slides, lectures, and talking. That’s fine for some learners. But for others, it barely scratches the surface.

When we intentionally design for different intelligences, we do more than just “engage learners.” We help them connect emotionally, remember longer, and actually use what they’ve learned. This approach not only enhances the learning experience but also improves retention and application of knowledge, leading to more effective training outcomes.

And isn’t that the point? 

One Final Thought

Great training isn’t about dumping information. It’s about creating moments that stick, ideas that come back days, weeks, even months later, when people actually need them. 

By making learning more human, more diverse, and more real, we give people the gift of not just learning but remembering. This is the essence of effective training and the key to creating lasting learning experiences.

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