Six Fundamental Strategies for Effective Learning
In 2016, the National Council on Teacher Quality (NCTQ) published a Teacher’s Guide* summarizing years of research into what makes learning truly effective.
The publication outlines six evidence-based strategies, fundamental for knowledge acquisition and real-world application.
The strategies are grouped into three clusters, reflecting the natural stages of the learning process:
Acquiring New Knowledge.
Pair spoken words with visualsWe all process information better when it’s presented via both audio and visual channels.Experienced facilitators use a simple trick: illustrating theory on flipcharts and gradually covering the room with visuals that help participants co-create their learning environment.
Support abstract concepts with concrete examplesReal-life cases, stories, and relevant scenarios help learners grasp the essence of complex ideas. The key is to connect the dots and explore how it all works together.
Connecting Ideas into a System.
Use open-ended questionsWhy? How? What if...?Open discussions help learners build personal meaning and apply knowledge to their own lives and work.
Practice through real-world cases and peer analysisSolving cases, group discussion, and identifying best practices enhance understanding and retention.
Retaining and Applying Knowledge.
Immediate and repeated applicationLearners should apply tools right after training and reinforce them until they become habits. Trainers need to follow up and observe behavior change over time — this is Kirkpatrick Level 3.
Measure outcomes.
We can’t improve what we don’t measure.
Understanding both learner and trainer outcomes ensures the content remains relevant and impactful.
* More details: National Council On Teacher Quality
June 28, 2021.