Repetisjon

Repetisjon is the Norwegian term for repetition, the act of repeating something previously done, stated, or learned. The word derives from Latin repetere, to seek again, and is used across fields such as education, music, psychology, and computing.

In education, repetition is a foundational learning strategy. It supports encoding and retention, but is most effective when combined with active practice and spaced repetition. Spaced repetition increases intervals between reviews to strengthen long-term memory; retrieval practice—trying to recall information—often yields greater gains than passive review.

In language learning, repetition aids pronunciation and recognition, and when paired with retrieval and meaningful context it improves retention more than rote drilling.

In music and the arts, repetition is a central device. A refrain, motif, or ostinato repeats a musical idea to create unity, while variation provides contrast. In literature, repeated motifs can shape structure and meaning.

In psychology and therapy, repeated exposure can lead to habituation, reducing response to stimuli. Repetition is also discussed in psychoanalytic theory as a tendency to reenact past patterns, and in behavior therapy as a means to reinforce desired actions.

In computing, repetition is implemented as loops or iteration. For and while constructs repeat code blocks until a condition is met, enabling automation and systematic processing.