Chris Woodhead’s, recommendation that “telling instead of doing” in primary school is the correct mode of education, and his advice that we “stand and address the whole class”, will certainly appeal to the intelligence of the child, who will be absorbed more by instruction than if left to his or her own devices.
The child learns much more when listening to the teacher, and concentrating on his words, and sometimes repeating them in concert, which affords an harmonious class. The art of concentrating the mind of the child by delightful communication is the key to learning.
Whereas in “doing”, while that occupies time and may draw out a natural talent or leaning, it will provide no real direction for the cultivation of the child’s mind.
PAUL H WEBSTER
37 Langley Road
Slough, Berkshire
