In this post, we'll explore how mastery-based learning works, why it improves student retention and performance, and how OpenClass helps educators implement this approach effectively using low-stakes assessments and spaced repetition tools.

What Is Mastery-Based Learning?

Mastery-based learning is an educational approach where students advance only after demonstrating a solid understanding of the current topic. The goal is to build a strong foundation for future learning, preventing knowledge gaps that can hinder academic success later on.

Key Principles:

Personalized Pacing: Students learn at their own pace until mastery is achieved.
Clear Learning Objectives: Each unit has well-defined, measurable goals.
Immediate Feedback: Regular, low-stakes assessments provide timely insights.
Targeted Review: Adaptive review assignments reinforce concepts based on student performance.

Why Mastery-Based Learning Works

Promotes Long-Term Retention
- Mastery-based learning leverages spaced repetition tools to reinforce key concepts over time, helping students retain information more effectively.
Reduces Learning Gaps
- By requiring mastery before moving forward, the approach minimizes knowledge gaps that can accumulate over time.
Increases Student Engagement
- Personalized pacing reduces frustration and keeps students motivated by allowing them to experience success more frequently.
Supports Diverse Learners
- The model accommodates varying learning speeds and styles, ensuring no student is left behind.

The Role of Low-Stakes Assessments in Mastery-Based Learning

Low-stakes assessments are essential for mastery-based learning, providing insights into student understanding without the pressure of high-stakes exams. These quizzes help:

Track progress towards mastery
Identify areas that need additional practice
Reinforce learning through active recall

How Spaced Repetition Supports Mastery-Based Learning

Spaced repetition tools automatically schedule review sessions to optimize memory retention. By revisiting material at increasing intervals, students strengthen their long-term recall.

OpenClass applies spaced repetition automatically by reintegrating previously learned concepts into assignments throughout the class, ensuring continuous reinforcement.

Top Tools for Mastery-Based Learning

1. OpenClass (Best for Adaptive Learning and Mastery-Based Assignments)

OpenClass is a versatile assignments platform that helps educators implement mastery-based learning effortlessly.

Key Features:

AI-generated questions from learning objectives and prompts
Adaptive review assignments with automatic spaced repetition
Multiple-choice and coding question formats
Real-time performance analytics

Why Instructors Love It: OpenClass helps ensure students achieve mastery through personalized, data-driven learning experiences.

Get started for free by creating an account or email team@openclass.ai for a free one-semester pro trial.

2. Khan Academy (Best for Self-Paced Mastery Learning)

Khan Academy's platform is built around mastery-based principles, allowing students to progress at their own pace.

Key Features:

Personalized learning paths
Interactive exercises with instant feedback
Performance dashboards for teachers

3. Quizlet (Best for Spaced Repetition with Flashcards)

Quizlet uses spaced repetition to help students retain information through interactive flashcards.

Key Features:

Adaptive learning based on performance
Customizable study sets
Collaborative learning tools

4. Edulastic (Best for Standards-Based Mastery Learning)

Edulastic supports mastery learning through customizable assessments aligned with educational standards.

Key Features:

Standards-aligned assignments
Real-time data insights
Auto-graded quizzes

5. GoFormative (Best for Real-Time Mastery Tracking)

GoFormative provides real-time feedback to track student progress toward mastery goals.

Key Features:

Live response tracking
Customizable question formats
Performance analytics

Tips for Implementing Mastery-Based Learning

Define Clear Learning Objectives: Make sure each lesson includes measurable goals.
Incorporate Low-Stakes Assessments: Use formative quizzes to track student understanding.
Use Spaced Repetition: Automatically review previously learned material to reinforce retention.
Monitor Performance Data: Analyze reports to tailor instruction and provide targeted support.

Why OpenClass Is the Best Choice for Mastery-Based Learning

OpenClass makes mastery-based learning easy by automating key processes like spaced repetition, adaptive review assignments, and performance tracking. The platform's intuitive interface and research-based features empower educators to improve student outcomes with less effort.

Get Started with OpenClass Today

Join the growing number of educators using OpenClass to implement mastery-based learning.

For Instructors: Create a free account or email team@openclass.ai for a free one-semester trial of our pro license.

For Administrators: Contact us to learn more about our enterprise license options.

Help your students build stronger knowledge foundations and achieve better learning outcomes with OpenClass.

How Mastery-Based Learning Can Improve Student Retention and Performance