This study identified learners' perspectives on the most effective teaching strategies. Professionals in the field of education have worked to increase educational achievement and success by exploring ways to match instructional strategies with individual learning styles. The voices of the learners have seldom been considered in this effort. The experiential and constructive learning theories were used as the conceptual framework for this qualitative research study as both provide a basis for examining individual intellectual and educational development that can enhance the learning process. A grounded theory of effective teaching was constructed based on the responses of 22 participants who are currently completing 5th grade. The data were analyzed by reducing it into themes through the process of coding. Participants were interviewed using open-ended questions that encouraged identification of activities and strategies utilized by their teachers that enhanced their learning experiences. A theoretical model was developed that describes the teaching strategies participants reported as most useful to them. Participants were interviewed using open-ended questions that encouraged identification of activities and strategies utilized by their teachers that enhanced their learning experiences. The findings of this study indicated that instruction must be multifaceted and promote student participation to maintain interest and engagement in the learning experience. Professionals involved in the education of children are encouraged to incorporate these strategies into their lesson plans and promote active learning. The social change implications that emerged from this study involve the delivery of high quality education and an increase in student academic success, as classrooms become a strong foundation for future productive members of society. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]