Rethinking How to Introduce the Learning Sciences: a Near-Peer Approach.

To address the problem of students cramming for examinations using short-term memorization, we developed an interactive session for first-year medical students in which a near-peer discussed evidence-based learning strategies and how to apply them to specific curricular activities to promote long-term retention and deep understanding. Immediate and delayed post-survey data suggested this new session promoted adoption of evidence-based learning strategies and was well-received by students.