Smart Teaching Stronger Learning:
Practical Tips From 10 Cognitive Scientists

Edited by Pooja K. Agarwal, Ph.D.
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In the book Smart Teaching Stronger Learning, renowned cognitive scientists from around the world share innovative teaching strategies that significantly transform student learning. This approachable resource distills key principles from the science of learning, with concise chapters and real-world examples for busy educators and leaders in K–12, higher education, and beyond.

Enrich your pedagogy, professional growth, and knowledge of the newest findings in educational psychology with down-to-earth tips straight from the source: cognitive scientists who are also classroom teachers. Learn how you already use evidence-based methods — such as retrieval practice, interleaving, and metacognition — and gain creative strategies to strengthen student motivation, long-term learning, and success.

 
 
 

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  • Introduction by Dr. Pooja K. Agarwal (Editor)

    1. Retrieval Practice: Smart Teaching Strategies for Stronger Learning by Dr. Janell R. Blunt

    2. Early Childhood Education: Retrieval-Based Learning for Children by Dr. Lisa K. Fazio

    3. Spaced Practice: Optimize Class Time to Boost Learning by Dr. Shana K. Carpenter

    4. Interleaving: Mix Things Up to Support Long-Term Learning by Dr. Veronica X. Yan

    5. Metacognition: Monitoring, Control, and Trusting in the Self by Dr. Lisa K. Son

    6. Concept Mapping: Strengthen Learning with Linking Words by Dr. Kripa Sundar

    7. The Effective Teaching Cycle: Motivation, Scaffolding, and Reinforcement by Dr. Cynthia L. Nebel

    8. Transfer of Learning: Foster Students’ Application of Knowledge by Dr. Steven C. Pan

    9. Bringing It Together: Bite-Sized Adjustments for Powerful Engagement by Dr. Michelle L. Rivers

    10. Neuromyths Debunked: Why They Persist and How to Think Smarter by Dr. Roberta Ekuni

    About the Editor

    Acknowledgments

    References

  • In the past 20 years, there have been monumental gains in the field of cognitive science in understanding how students learn, especially in real classroom environments. Educators are using evidence to improve their teaching, and the recent abundance of resources on the science of learning is astounding.

    But there are still persistent misconceptions about learning and misguided recommendations for teachers based on so-called “research” that is outdated, obscure, or flawed. Educators need research-based teaching strategies they can trust and that’s why the book Smart Teaching Stronger Learning was created: to share the science of learning straight from the source — researchers who are also teachers.

    The 10 cognitive scientists featured in this book practice what they preach and they love sharing how they teach. They have done the heavy lifting for you by translating research, developing class activities, and testing them out in their own classrooms. They are also representative of today’s educators: As women, BIPOC, LGBTQ+, first generation college graduates, English language learners, and educators who have taught students from historically marginalized communities, they know what it’s like to teach in the real world. This book doesn’t include statistics, jargon, or unapproachable research by out-of-touch academics. What it does include is real solutions to real problems by down-to-earth teachers who also conduct research on learning.

    Smart Teaching Stronger Learning was designed with curious and busy educators in mind. As a curious educator, you already spend considerable time and energy thinking about learning. Perhaps you are a pre-service teacher looking to start your career, or you are a veteran teacher who wants to refresh your approach. You might be a faculty member at a teaching center or a graduate student conducting research. For educators from all walks of life, this book is a guide to thinking about learning in a new light, with some bite-sized research along the way.

    You’re also a busy educator. We’ve been there. We know what it’s like to juggle lesson planning, grading, emails, and meetings (not to mention the actual teaching). That’s why this book is intentionally short — only 10 pages per chapter — and also why each author focuses on teaching strategies you can implement immediately, without additional course prep or grading.

    Whether you teach K–12 students or graduate students, or you’re new to teaching or a long-time educator: If you want to improve student learning, this book is for you.

  • Published by Unleash Learning Press. Copyright © 2025 by Pooja K. Agarwal.

    Questions or interested in a bulk order? Email ask@retrievalpractice.org.

    ISBN (paperback): 9798991819107
    ISBN (e-book): 9798991819114
    Library of Congress Control Number: 2024924118