Facts vs progressive teaching

Catherine was a "progressive" teacher, and taught outside of the box. At first, her students did not accept her style, because they had always been taught the facts. They memorized all of the information in the syllabus before the class even started, so that the teacher did not have to teach them anything, and they could go to "independent study." However, their plan backfired, because Catherine used their advanced knowledge in her teaching. She pushed the girls to write better papers, and even gave second chances when they did not expect it. Facts can be retained, but I have always remembered information when an eventful memory is associated with it. When the teacher uses activities and interesting class discussions to teach the information, like Catherine did, I always remember the material more solidly, rather than memorizing blunt facts.