Which instructional approaches are known to promote deeper learning?

Engaged learning is recognized for its effectiveness in promoting deeper learning because it actively involves students in the learning process. This approach encourages students to participate, collaborate, and interact with the material, which fosters critical thinking and enhances retention of knowledge.

In engaged learning environments, students often work on real-world problems, participate in discussions, and apply their knowledge in meaningful contexts. This active involvement helps learners to not only grasp concepts more thoroughly but also to relate them to their own experiences and understand their relevance, which is a hallmark of deeper learning.

In contrast, methods like drill and practice, lecture-based instruction, and learning through passive observation tend to focus on rote memorization and surface learning. These approaches do not typically encourage critical engagement or the application of knowledge, which is essential for fostering a deeper understanding of content.