Partial profile · Book Profile — full narrative profile planned
Why Dont Students Like School
A cognitive scientist explains how the mind works and provides practical, evidence-based principles for teachers to help students learn and enjoy school more.
A profile of this book is on the way.
What it’s about
Why do students remember the plot of a movie but forget the causes of World War I? Why do some love school while others dread it? In "Why Don't Students Like School?", cognitive scientist Daniel Willingham bridges the gap between scientific research on the mind and the daily realities of the classroom. He answers the most common questions teachers have by translating complex cognitive psychology into clear, actionable principles. The book reveals that the brain isn't designed for thinking but can be coaxed into it under the right conditions, that factual knowledge is the necessary foundation for critical thinking, and that memory is simply the residue of what we think about. By debunking popular but ineffective fads like learning styles and offering powerful strategies grounded in evidence—such as structuring lessons like stories and the crucial role of practice—this book equips educators to design more engaging and effective learning experiences, fostering not just academic success but a genuine enjoyment of learning.
The through-line
- Who it’s for
- A dedicated teacher who wants to ignite a genuine love of learning in their students and see them succeed, not just on tests, but in their ability to think critically and understand the world.
- The problem
- Students are often disengaged, easily forget what they've been taught, and struggle to apply concepts in new situations, despite the teacher's best efforts. The teacher feels frustrated, ineffective, and discouraged, constantly searching for better methods and wondering why their passion for their subject isn't translating into lasting student learning.
- The plan
- Grasp the nine core principles of how the student mind works.
- Apply these principles to rethink and refine your lesson plans, assignments, and classroom strategies.
- Continuously improve your own teaching craft through deliberate, reflective practice.
- The payoff
- The teacher feels empowered and effective, equipped with a reliable framework for making instructional decisions. · The classroom becomes a more engaging, curious, and productive environment. · Students develop deeper understanding, retain knowledge longer, and build the confidence that comes from successful learning.