Teaching that sticks: Six powerful strategies to boost student success

Queen Mary University of London (QMUL), Marketing and Communications Senior Lecturer and Associate Professor, Dr Farrah Arif has devised a framework of activities to maximise the use of the “Six Strategies for Effective Learning” developed by Yana Weinstein and Megan Smith, at The Learning Scientists*, that enhance retention, deepen understanding, and foster active engagement. 

Educating students at the higher education level is both a challenge and an opportunity. As an educator, my goal is not just to teach, but to equip students with lifelong learning skills. To achieve this, I have adopted a structured framework based on six evidence-based learning strategies as devised by Megan Smith and Yana Weinstein at The Learning Scientists *. These techniques enhance retention, deepen understanding, and foster active engagement. 

1. Spaced practice: Reinforcing knowledge over time 

Spaced practice involves revisiting content at intervals to strengthen long-term memory. Rather than cramming before exams, students retain more when they review material consistently. I apply this by integrating past concepts into new discussions and assignments throughout the semester. At the end of the term, students submit assignments that reflect cumulative learning, with detailed feedback provided to complete the learning cycle. However, students who miss classes face challenges, as they lose the structured exposure that spaced learning offers. 

2. Retrieval practice: Strengthening memory through active recall 

Retrieval practice encourages students to recall information rather than passively reviewing notes. I incorporate this using: 

• Quizzes: Using interactive tools like menti.com, students engage in gamified learning while I assess their understanding. 

• Reflection Time: At the end of each session, students write down their key takeaways, reinforcing learning while giving me insight into their retention. 

• Q&A Discussions: A digital discussion board allows students to ask questions, fostering peer learning and reinforcing concepts. 

• Case Study Debates: Small group discussions on real-world scenarios help students connect theories with practical applications. 

These techniques transform passive learners into active participants. 

3. Elaboration: Deepening understanding through explanation 

To help students grasp complex ideas, I use multiple methods to explain the same concept: 

• Providing definitions for clarity. 

• Illustrating with real-world examples for relevance. 

• Incorporating short videos (1-2 minutes each) to break monotony and enhance retention. 

• Using a variety of explanations makes learning engaging and adaptable to different student preferences. 

4. Interleaving: Mixing concepts for better mastery 

Interleaving involves teaching related topics together to highlight connections and deepen understanding. I use this particularly in workshops—for example, when teaching Correlation and Regression: 

• First, I explain both concepts. 

• Then, students use Excel and SPSS to analyse data. 

• Finally, we interpret findings and discuss real-world applications. 

By alternating between related concepts, students develop a stronger ability to distinguish and apply them effectively. 

5. Concrete examples: Making abstract ideas tangible 

Abstract concepts can be difficult to grasp, so I integrate concrete examples in every lecture. I also encourage students to share their own examples, making discussions interactive and relatable. Additionally, I enhance lessons with: 

• Images and infographics to visualize concepts. 

• Case studies to demonstrate real-world applications. 

• Short video clips to reinforce learning. 

This approach not only makes learning more engaging but also improves retention by associating concepts with familiar experiences. 

6. Dual-coding: Combining visuals and text for better retention 

Dual-coding enhances understanding by pairing text with visuals. My lecture slides always include:

• Images alongside key concepts to make information more digestible.

• Short text descriptions that reinforce the visuals. 

This method ensures students process and recall information more effectively when reviewing materials later. 

A student-centred approach to learning 

These strategies align with Student-Centred Learning, where the focus shifts from passive lectures to active engagement. My approach integrates: 

• Project-based learning through case studies and hands-on assignments. 

• Curriculum relevance by aligning content with students’ career aspirations. 

• Engaging assessments that are interactive and application-based. 

• Flexible learning with recorded lectures and early access to course materials. 

By integrating these six proven strategies, educators can transform the learning experience, making it more engaging, effective, and lasting. When students take an active role in their learning, they not only understand concepts better but also develop skills that serve them beyond the classroom. 

References:  

Six Strategies for Effective Learning by Yana Weinstein, Megan Smith, & Oliver Caviglioli