Flashcards and the Science of Retrieval Practice

Flashcards are a simple and familiar study tool—but many learners use them in ways that limit their impact. Without structured strategies, flashcards often become a means of rote memorization, falling short of building a strong foundation of knowledge and supporting long-term retention.

As an educator, you can help shift that approach. By aligning learners’ study habits with the science of retrieval practice, you can ensure they’re using flashcards to actively reinforce knowledge, promote recall, and build lasting understanding.

In this on-demand webinar, Dr. Cynthia Nebel, Director of Learning Services at St. Louis University School of Medicine, and Dr. Althea Kaminske, Senior Director of Student Academic Success at Indiana University School of Medicine, share research-based strategies for maximizing the impact of flashcards and guiding learners toward more effective study routines.

You’ll learn how to:

• Explain the learning science behind flashcards to help learners understand and apply retrieval-based study methods
• Recognize when and how to recommend flashcards based on learning context and goals
• Guide learners in adopting research-backed flashcard strategies—and help them avoid common mistakes

Meet the Presenter:

Dr. Cynthia Nebel
Director of Learning Services
St. Louis University School of Medicine

Dr. Althea Kaminske
Senior Director of Student Academic Success
Indiana University School of Medicine

Dr. Nebel and Dr. Kaminske are collaborators on The Learning Scientists, a project focused on translating cognitive science into effective classroom practices. Their shared work supports educators in applying research-backed strategies to improve learner outcomes in higher and professional education.