You’ve probably experienced this before: you follow language training, learn a lot of new words and phrases ... then a month later, you can't recall most of what you've learnt.
Frustrating – both for the language learner and for the HR manager or training officer who invested in the language course.
This issue is particularly common among non-native employees, especially blue-collar workers. Not because of a lack of motivation, but due to other reasons, such as limited time for practice, the learning material not aligning with the workplace, or the absence of the right tools to retain what’s been learnt.
But why do you forget what you've learnt? And even more importantly, what can you do to avoid that?
Learnt a new language but forgotten everything?
The phenomenon of quickly forgetting new knowledge is no surprise, and the problem doesn’t lie with you, but with your brain.
The famous forgetting curve by Hermann Ebbinghaus shows that we forget up to 70% of what we learn within the first 24 hours, unless we actively review the new information.
After one week, only about 10 to 20% of what we’ve learnt remains.
The forgetting curve principle applies to learning a new language as well. This is why it feels like the new knowledge has slipped away so quickly.
Luckily, there’s something you can do about it!
Why repetition works.
Learning isn’t about a single moment of understanding. It’s about sustaining progress over time. By revisiting new knowledge at the right moments, we give it a better chance to stick.
To effectively reinforce language learning, repetition needs to be timed around each individual's unique pace and progress.
That's exactly what Drillster is built for — a smart, adaptive learning app that BLCC has integrated into a range of language training programmes, including those specifically tailored for blue-collar workers.
How can the app help?
Drillster ensures that you repeat exactly what you’re about to forget, at the best possible moment so that the new knowledge sticks. The app tracks what you’ve already mastered, and also what you still need to practise, and when you need to review it again.
You learn smarter, not harder. And it works!
Who is this app for?
At BLCC, we use Drillster for language training programmes that need to do more than just inform and teach: language learnt must stick and be applied in the workplace. Moreover, BLCC’s learning content is tailored to blue-collar workers (for example, vocabulary around safety, instructions, and work processes), making it ideal for improving Dutch in the workplace.
Key benefits include:
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Learn anytime, anywhere — via smartphone, tablet, or desktop.
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Tailored to blue-collar workers — with vocabulary focused on safety, instructions, and work processes.
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Personalised learning journeys — adaptive paths and feedback ensure learners learn what they need to.
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Smarter repetition — based on the science of the forgetting curve to boost retention.
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Higher engagement — through challenges, deadlines, and reminders.
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Lasting impact — long-term results driven by strategically timed repetition.
Language training that sticks and helps your organisation move forward.
Whether you are looking to improve Dutch in the workplace, enhance safety, or enable smoother collaboration among colleagues, Drillster helps make language learning sustainable and accessible, even for employees who find traditional methods challenging.
Curious about Drillster?
Looking for language training that really works and sticks? Request a free demo now.
Our Training Advisors are ready to show you how Drillster helps your employees build and retain new knowledge in a way that fits their pace — and your company’s goals.
👉 Get in touch with our sales team via the button below and start breaking down language barriers in your workplace.
👉 Curious about Drillster? Learn more on this page.