Using examples in class, i.e. personal stories, works well if they illustrate concepts. Study guides work well as long as students work without the book. Using the book bypasses the brain. Knowledge must be processed. It takes longer but is retained.
Flash cards are good but better with a partner.
In this way partner must give hints, not just spout the answer. Working alone with flash cards usually isn't as effective. Student merely turns the card over and recognizes the answer rather than processing. We, who are teachers, did not have a problem studying, memorizing facts, processing information, etc. The topic was student motivation.