I developed an open source app that tries to solve this problem. Active recall at the topic level with spaced repetition email reminders using FSRS algorithm.
https://github.com/Gerosullivan/Learntime
I'm working on Learntime (https://learntime.ai), an open-source/saas learning app that combines AI mentorship with evidence-based study techniques. It's designed for students and lifelong learners who want to retain information more effectively and perform better in exams.
It focuses on un-prompted recall of entire topics (not just flashcards), supported by an AI mentor that provides hints and tracks progress. It uses spaced repetition to optimise review schedules and includes a quick quiz feature targeting weak areas.
This is my first solo open-source project, and it's been quite a journey! I initially started with LangChain, thinking it would simplify the AI integration. However, I found myself spending more time wrestling with abstractions than solving core problems. Eventually, I dropped it in favour of a more direct approach.
The biggest technical challenge has been implementing free recall scoring with LLMs. I've been through a cycle of different techniques - prompt engineering, few-shot learning, fine-tuning - and back again!
All of this while welcoming my third child and approaching 50! It's been a balancing act, but the project keeps me energised. Feedback, similar experiences or insights welcome!
It's quite intriguing to see Anthropic joining the ranks of major Silicon Valley companies setting up shop in Ireland. Yet, it's surprising that despite such a notable presence, Claude still isn't accessible here. What do you think is holding back its availability in our region?
