SoTL Snapshots: Evidence-Based Teaching Strategies

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Evidence-Based Teaching Strategies Return to Snapshot Homepage 


These Snapshots describe research-based teaching strategies ​on topics including deep learning, critical thinking, active learning, and student motivation.

 "Studies Can Increase Student Learning and Critical Thinking"

Research shows that case studies can help students learn how to apply theories and generate practical solutions to problems...

 "Students Report the in-class Mindfulness Exercises May Enhance Deep Learning"

Anecdotal evidence suggests that in-class mindfulness exercises may enhance student learning. In this study, a researcher and...

In a democratic classroom that follows a Students-as-Partners approach, students help make decisions about course assignments...

The assessments used in a course influence the way students learn and engage with class content. Certain assessments require...

 "Active Learning Classrooms and Student Engagement"

Active learning classrooms (ALCs) typically include round or curved tables, moveable seats, and large screen displays that students...

 "Increasing Student Engagement in Action Videos"

Instructors use videos in face-to-face and online settings as a key tool in education. Students’ attentive behaviours while watching...

 "Using Collaborative Note-Taking to Promote an Inclusive Learning Environment"

Many students use laptops to independently take notes which can lead to low class engagement and unhelpful or inaccurate notes...

Intercultural competence refers to the ability to communicate effectively and appropriately in intercultural situations. Intercultural...

Research shows that lectures are still the most commonly used teaching method in higher education. Though lectures are...

Online tutorials can present challenges for students and instructors including keeping students engaged and presenting...

Although drawing is used as a teaching technique in the visual arts and some science disciplines, drawing is used less often in....

The ability to analyze and interpret data is a growing focus in the life sciences. A Research Box assignment can be used to engage...

In a ‘flipped classroom’ model, students read or view materials before class, work on practical problems in class, and check their...

In typical flipped classes, class time is used for what would traditionally be homework, and time out of class is used for what would...

Online asynchronous discussions are used in both online and in-person courses. Research has shown that asynchronous online...

Cognitive psychologists agree that cramming, highlighting, and rereading are not effective study strategies, especially for long-term...

Researchers have examined factors that affect student motivation in the university environment. Lack of motivation can lead...

Active learning in a student-centered learning environment can enhance students’ critical thinking and communication skills...

Creating an active learning environment is important for educators in order to engage students during class time. The flipped...

Cooperative learning involves students working together to achieve a learning goal. Research suggests...

Large undergraduate courses, specifically first-year courses, run into challenges such as engagement and self-directed learning...

Research shows that students can increase their ability to retain information by studying the same information on more than one...

Game-based learning is a form of active learning that involves engaging students in gameplay related to defined learning outcomes.

Faculty Perspectives on Inclusive Teaching

Faculty members play a critical role in the educational experience of all students in higher education, but they are particularly...

Considerations for Using Digital Badges to Increase Motivation for Students to Acquire New Skills

Digital badges (or microcredentials) can document a student’s new skillset...

Case Studies Can Improve Student Grades, Course Understanding, and Engagement

Case studies use relevant and often real-life scenarios to interest students in a particular...

Using Technology-Nested Instructional Strategies to Enhance Student Learning

Maintaining a high level of focus in the classroom can be difficult, especially during....

Flipped classrooms can help deepen student learning

Recent research has stressed the importance of active learning within classrooms....

Self-Study Program Based on the Physical Training of Athletes Can Improve Student Learning

Research shows that students can increase their ability to retain information by studying.....

Using Structured Worksheets Can Improve Learning Outcomes and Student Engagement

Active learning is defined as student-centred learning where students engage......

A flipped classroom approach can help food science students feel prepared for laboratory components

Laboratory courses allow food science and technology students to develop important.....

Students engaged in mindfulness exercises in class can improve their writing self-efficacy

Students with strong writing self-efficacy have high confidence......

Engaging Undergraduate Biology Students with Local Biodiversity Through a Free Online Website

Most university courses moved online during the COVID-19 pandemic.......

A novel approach for enhancing ethics education

Accrediting bodies of medical schools now recognize that ethics instruction is an integral part of medical education......

Work Life Balance and Burnout in Faculty

Social connection plays an important role in the promotion of student well-being and academic success....