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Janell Blunt Helps Students Build Stronger Learning Through Retrieval Practice

bringing research-based learning strategies into the classroom, a national publications, and conversations with educators.

a professor and five students examine eye and brain anatomy

ANDERSON, Ind. — In 2025, Janell Blunt, assistant professor of psychology at Anderson University, contributed a chapter on retrieval practice to the book “Smart Teaching, Stronger Learning.” Since then, she has shared her research on several communication science and education podcasts.

Blunt specializes in research on concept mapping and retrieval practice to help students retain information better.

Connecting with the “Smart Teaching, Stronger Learning” authors

Several years ago, she connected with a group of women in cognitive science coordinated by Dr. Pooja Agarwal through her work with retrievalpractice.org. In the group’s Slack channel, they collaborate on workshops and publications, share teaching tips and research ideas, and “nerd out” about cognitive science, Blunt said.

“It’s been a really meaningful community of women in science who care deeply about improving student learning,” Blunt said.

From these conversations, Agarwal had an idea for a concise, practical book educators could immediately use in their classrooms.

“She wanted it written by people who live in both worlds: educators who also happen to be cognitive scientists, and grounded in real classroom research. That vision resonated with all of us.”
Janell Blunt
Janell Blunt

assistant professor of psychology

“She wanted it written by people who live in both worlds: educators who also happen to be cognitive scientists, and grounded in real classroom research,” Blunt said. “That vision resonated with all of us.”

Within its first year, the book sold 7,746 copies across 16 countries. Blunt said watching a research-based, educator-focused publication reach so many people so quickly has energized both her and her students.

“When you come to Anderson University, you have the opportunity to hear your classroom experiences described in a book or on a podcast,” Blunt said.

Research-based learning strategies

Retrieval practice requires students to recall information rather than simply reread it. Blunt has her students practice it using mini whiteboards. Instead of reviewing information from previous lessons at the beginning of class, Blunt prompts students, “What are three things you remember from yesterday, last week, last month, or from previous classes?” Students then jot down their answers.

The same practice can work on paper. However, because whiteboards are easily erasable, students are more willing to try, making recall less intimidating.

This low-stakes retrieval practice reduces anxiety and supports long-term recall.

“Something my research has really highlighted is that people aren’t great at judging their own learning,” Blunt said. “We often assume that rereading notes or skimming a chapter strengthens memory, and it does feel productive. But that feeling comes from familiarity, not lasting learning.”

Relying on intuition alone, people often use strategies that don’t help knowledge stick. Recognizing that intuition can be misleading, students can shift to evidence-based techniques like retrieval practice, which builds durable learning.

“When I made a major shift toward using retrieval practice in my classes, I saw an immediate change in student learning,” Blunt said.

In Blunt’s neuroscience course, featured in the book, Blunt “flipped” her classroom. Students began watching short pre-recorded videos before class, saving class time for retrieval practice on the whiteboards. The results were striking: student exam performance improved by 20% the first year.

Blunt said these learning strategies also prepare students for their careers.

“Retrieval practice isn’t just a study strategy to do well on an exam; it’s a way of strengthening the knowledge people will rely on in their careers.”
Janell Blunt Linkedin Learning
Janell Blunt

assistant professor of psychology

“A nursing student who can recall complex medical information more accurately is better equipped to care for patients. A future counselor who truly understands psychopharmacology is better prepared to guide clients in difficult times,” Blunt said. “Retrieval practice isn’t just a study strategy to do well on an exam; it’s a way of strengthening the knowledge people will rely on in their careers.”

Blunt’s psychology students have also become equipped to share these skills with others.

In September, Andrea Diaz ’27 traveled with Blunt to Goshen to discuss the book with parents of K-12 students. Diaz applied what she learned in Blunt’s memory class alongside skills from her interpersonal class, where she learned to lead training sessions.

Building a culture of learning

Beyond her own classroom, AU professors are embracing Blunt’s research and seeing students thrive.

“I genuinely believe any educator can do this in any classroom,” Blunt said. “At Anderson University, we’re especially well positioned to innovate because we’re agile and our faculty are willing to experiment.”

Professors have reorganized classrooms, created dedicated spaces for retrieval practice, and invited Blunt to teach students effective learning strategies.

“Dr. Janell Blunt is transforming the way students learn through her innovative research and national work on retrieval practice,” Laura Stull, professor and chair of the psychology department, said. “She exemplifies what it means to turn research into action, bringing evidence-based strategies from classrooms and conferences across the country directly to Anderson University, where her work has inspired faculty and students to rethink how we approach studying and learning. Whiteboards abound in the AU Psychology Department! We are incredibly fortunate to have her expertise, passion, and leadership on our campus.”

Check out Blunt's Podcast Apperances

Events where Blunt has discussed "Smart Teaching: Stronger Learning"

Academics, Featured News, People of AU, Student Life, 2026

About Anderson University

Anderson University educates students for lives of faith and service, offering more than 50 undergraduate majors, 30 three-year degrees, 18 NCAA Division III intercollegiate sports, alongside adult, graduate, and online programs. The private, liberal arts institution is fully accredited and recognized for excellence in business, computer science, cybersecurity, engineering, music, nursing, psychology, social work, and teacher education programs. Established in 1917 in Anderson, Indiana, by the Church of God, the university remains committed to its Christ-centered mission.