Illustration by Michael Keany/AI

Stick the Learning: Brain-Based Teaching Techniques to Increase Retention, Application, and Transfer
By Eric Saunders
(Solution Tree Press, 2023 – Learn more)

Reviewed by Megan Balduf

In "Stick the Learning: Brain-Based Teaching Techniques to Increase Retention, Application, and Transfer," Eric Saunders offers educators a concise yet comprehensive guide on applying neuroscience to teaching practices. Reviewed by Megan Balduf for MiddleWeb and published on February 8, 2024, the book emphasizes the gap between cognitive science advancements and their application in educational settings, aiming to bridge this divide with actionable strategies.

Saunders introduces the SIR technique—spaced repetition, interleaving, retrieval—as a cornerstone of his approach. This methodology aligns with cognitive science research to enhance how students learn and remember information. The book is structured to first present the scientific underpinnings of each element of the SIR technique, supported by multiple studies. Then, Saunders transitions to practical classroom applications, offering educators real-world examples and templates to implement these strategies effectively.

The concept of spaced repetition involves distributing learning over time to improve memory and understanding. Interleaving, another critical component, refers to mixing different topics or subjects in a learning session to strengthen cognitive connections. Lastly, retrieval practice encourages recalling information to enhance long-term retention. Saunders meticulously outlines how these strategies can be integrated into lesson planning and assessment, with suggestions such as a spaced repetition calendar and interleaved test questions.

Balduf praises Saunders for his ability to translate dense scientific research into accessible teaching techniques. The inclusion of templates and a quick-start guide at the end of the book is highlighted as particularly valuable, offering educators immediate tools to adapt their instructional methods. Saunders's work is presented as both a theoretical framework and a practical handbook, aiming to facilitate deeper learning and retention among students.

"Stick the Learning" is positioned as a transformative resource for educators seeking to elevate their teaching through brain-based methods. Saunders's emphasis on making these strategies user-friendly reflects a commitment to widespread adoption, with the potential to impact classroom environments positively. By leveraging the science of learning, Saunders and Balduf advocate for instructional practices that not only engage students but also foster meaningful, lasting understanding.

This summary captures the essence of Saunders's book and its review by Balduf, underscoring the importance of integrating cognitive science into education. By focusing on retention, application, and transfer, "Stick the Learning" contributes to a growing conversation on how best to support student learning in an ever-evolving educational landscape.

Read the full review at MiddleWeb: "Teaching for Retention, Application and Transfer" by Megan Balduf, published on February 8, 2024.

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Prepared with the assistance of AI software

OpenAI. (2024). ChatGPT (4) [Large language model]. https://chat.openai.com