When the student can correctly and automatically recall it numerous times after not having seen it for long intervals of time. This method can only be implemented effectively through the use of a computer. The Individualized Spaced-out Reinforcement Methodolgy is closely related to its computer application because it cannot be practically applied without a computer. The general idea is that every item of information being taught is reviewed by means of a point system and its last date of study, until the student stores it in his or her long-term memory, and demonstrates that he or she can can freely recall it with automaticity, and without error. Every time an item is reviewed, the student earns or loses points on that specific item and the computer records the points earned or lost and the date of study.
Every item is reviewed at intervals of several days based on the recorded information.
The points on each item determines how often the item will be reviewed. The reviewing process of an item stops when the student achieves a total point value of at least twenty positive points on the item and can remember it without error 30 days after its last review. When this occurs, the item is considered learned, and is removed from the reviewing process. At any point the student can take a quiz on learned items. The test can be done months or years after the item was considered learned.