Enhancing student study behaviors through classroom assessment techniques

• Classroom assessment techniques integrate active strategies to enhance student learning. • A student-centered approach with classroom assessment techniques may change behavior. • Inexpensive, practical strategy to potentially change behaviors, foster active learning, and provide a structured way to enhance learning. Nursing students require strong study habits and critical thinking for demanding coursework. Since the COVID-19 pandemic, many struggle with ineffective study techniques, leading to knowledge gaps and decreased academic performance. This teaching innovation evaluated a three-component intervention to enhance learning in medical-surgical nursing. It combined the "muddiest point" technique, targeted clarifications via the Learning Management System (LMS), and low stakes recall quizzes. This student-centered approach aimed to improve junior and senior nursing students' study habits and perceived learning effectiveness. Student surveys showed recall quizzes motivated proactive studying and identified areas for review. Students reported increased confidence, resource utilization, and positive changes in study habits, suggesting the effectiveness of this multifaceted approach in promoting self-regulated learning. Integrating muddiest points, LMS-based answers, and recall quizzing offers a scalable, evidence-based approach to improve study habits and academic success in nursing education. By fostering active learning, this innovation enhances comprehension, retention and application. Further exploration would be warranted to understand the impact on long-term knowledge retention and clinical decision-making.