Fancy Ketchup
Making Learning Stick
In my house, honey mustard is forever known as "fancy ketchup," thanks to one of my kids' mealtime observations. That random phrase stuck, and now every grocery store trip brings a smile when I pass the condiment aisle.
How do some concepts stick while others slide away? Like the honey mustard nickname, the most memorable learning often comes from unexpected connections and engaging moments.
As part-time educators, we rarely have the luxury of reteaching concepts multiple times. We need our lessons to stick the first time around. This is where "sticky learning" comes in – creating memorable experiences that last well beyond the classroom walls.
First, build enthusiasm. Just like my kids got excited about their "fancy" condiment discovery, I generate buzz about upcoming topics in class. Sometimes, it's sharing a compelling video; other times, it's highlighting success stories from previous students. This initial spark matters.
Then, chunk it down. Bite-sized combinations in the form of brief explainer videos, organizing modules around central themes, and providing extra support for those challenging units (you know, the ones!) become the space where social learning can evolve.
Students learn best when they can share their own "fancy ketchup" moments. Discussion boards, group projects, and teach-back activities allow them to connect course concepts to their lived experiences. My students particularly love test-prep flashcards, gamified leaderboards, and peer teaching opportunities.
But just like any good recipe, consistency is key. Regular communication, scheduled interactions, and routine check-ins help cement these connections. I use my LMS to schedule weekly nudges, reminders, and announcements, creating a steady rhythm of engagement.
Before Your Next Class:
Ready to make your own lessons stick? Choose one communication strategy and make it routine. Whether it's weekly content previews, quick video explanations, or structured peer discussions, consistency matters more than complexity.
Share this with your colleague who turns "I forgot" into "How could I forget?", and SUBSCRIBE for bite-sized strategies delivered straight to your inbox. We're in this semester together.
