Babbel's review feature is designed to improve language learning by using the proven method of spaced repetition.
This feature helps you move vocabulary from short-term to long-term memory by reminding you when words and phrases are due for practice. This automatic scheduling is based on how often you review and your performance during those sessions.
How does the review feature work?
Each time you complete a lesson, new phrases are added to your vocabulary. You can use the review feature to see how well you remember the phrases you've learnt.
Every time you get a word right, our system recognises it and asks you to review it less often and at longer intervals. If you make a mistake, our system will ask you to review it more often.
We have recently changed the current categorisation from stages to a simpler way of showing your progress in learning vocabulary.
All your words and phrases are now categorised as Weak, Medium or Strong: these categories reflect the strength with which they are retained in your memory. Your existing vocabulary has been also automatically placed into each category based on when it was last reviewed.
If it has been reviewed recently, it will be considered 'Strong'. If a phrase hasn't been reviewed in a while, it will move to Medium and eventually Weak.
Where can I find the review feature?
Review is accessible both on desktop through your dashboard at www.babbel.com and on mobile devices via the Babbel app. You can easily find it in your navigation bar: at the top if you are using Babbel on your computer, or at the bottom if you are using the app.
You will see a list of all the words and phrases you have learnt, and will be prompted to review items that are ready for another look.
How can I review my vocabulary?
For different learning styles and preferences, Babbel offers several interactive revision methods. These modes are designed to engage you in active review and practice in the format that best suits your learning needs.
- Flashcards: You can test your memory by trying to remember the translation of a word or phrase and then turning the card over to check your answer. This method helps with visual learning and memory.
- Writing: This mode requires you to type the word or phrase you are learning, improving your ability to remember and spell vocabulary accurately.
- Speaking: This option encourages you to say the word or phrase out loud, which is particularly useful for improving pronunciation and building confidence.
- Listening: This mode allows you to listen to the pronunciation of the word and select the correct multiple-choice answer, which helps with auditory recognition and comprehension.
What are custom collections?
Custom collections in Babbel's review feature allow you to create personalised sets of vocabulary to focus on. You can save specific words or phrases you've learnt to a custom collection, which will allow you to review only those items.
To create a custom collection, simply scroll down on the review page and click "Create a new collection", then select the phrases and save them. You will now be able to review the phrases you have selected.
You can change your collection at any time by adding and deleting items, renaming or deleting your collection.
What is spaced repetition?
Spaced repetition is a technique to help you remember vocabulary more effectively. When you review your vocabulary, we recommend words and phrases based on how well you've answered them in the past. If you get a word right the first time, it's scheduled for review the next day. If you continue to answer correctly, the review intervals increase to four days, seven days, 14 days, 60 days and then six months.
This approach helps to improve your memory by spacing out your reviews over time and helps you to build a strong vocabulary that will last. This method is supported by over a century of research which suggests that learning is more effective when it is spread over time.
Additional features
Babbel's review feature not only automates the spacing of review sessions, but also offers flexibility for those who want to tailor their review experience. These additional features give you more control over how and when you engage with the vocabulary you are learning.
- Review these items: On the desktop version, you can manually select specific vocabulary to review at any time. This feature is particularly useful if you want to focus on specific words or phrases without affecting their position in the spaced repetition cycle.
- Play all: For auditory learners, the mobile apps include a 'Play all' feature. This allows you to listen to all of your vocabulary or just those from a particular stage, making it easy to fit learning into your daily routine, whether you're commuting, exercising or doing housework.