Learning method (4)
I believe the answer is:
rote
'learning method' is the definition.
(I've seen this in another clue)
This is the entire clue.
(Other definitions for rote that I've seen before include "Mechanical routine" , "Learn by ____ (repetition)" , "By . . . . - from memory without thought" , "Learn by . . . . to have off by heart" , "mindless activity?" .)