Donald Norman: 'So what does a good teacher do? Create tension - but just the right amount.'

So what does a good teacher do? Create tension - but just the right amount.

In his thought-provoking quote, Donald Norman reflects on the role of a good teacher, stating that they should create tension, but only in the right amount. At first glance, this statement may sound perplexing, but its underlying meaning holds great significance in the realm of education and personal growth. Essentially, a good teacher should strike a delicate balance between challenging their students and providing support, encouraging them to push boundaries, explore new ideas, and ultimately develop their skills and knowledge. By doing so, tension is fostered, leading to enhanced learning outcomes and personal development.To further delve into the essence of this quote, let's introduce the concept of Taoism, a philosophical belief system that emphasizes harmony and balance. Taoism teaches us that life consists of a delicate equilibrium, where opposing forces exist to maintain harmony. Applying this concept to teaching, we can interpret tension as the opposing force to complacency, stagnation, and mediocrity. By introducing tension in just the right amount, a teacher disrupts the status quo, propelling students out of their comfort zones and into a state of growth and transformation.Imagine a classroom where tension is absent. Students would be content with their existing knowledge, never challenged to explore new ideas or approaches. In such an environment, intellectual growth would be limited, and the potential for deeper understanding and critical thinking would remain unrealized. Conversely, excessively high levels of tension can become overwhelming and discourage learning. Therefore, a good teacher intuitively determines the optimal amount of tension needed to ignite curiosity and stimulate intellectual growth, without overwhelming their students.The art of creating tension lies in effectively captivating students' attention and maintaining their engagement, without causing anxiety or frustration. One method is to present intellectually stimulating material that stretches each student's current understanding, encouraging them to question, explore, and seek answers beyond the surface level. By striking a balance between a student's comfort zone and the realm of the unknown, a teacher can inspire a thirst for knowledge and motivate the student to improve.Moreover, a good teacher recognizes the importance of providing support and guidance during periods of tension. Students may encounter challenges, face setbacks, or experience moments of doubt during their journey of exploration and growth. It is the teacher's role to offer encouragement, provide resources, and facilitate a safe and nurturing environment where students feel empowered to take risks and learn from their mistakes. By embracing the inherent tension that arises from intellectual growth, students develop resilience, problem-solving skills, and a determination to overcome obstacles.The concept of tension in teaching extends beyond the classroom. In the pursuit of lifelong learning and personal development, individuals must continually stretch their limits, confront new challenges, and adapt to changing circumstances. This tension arises from the discrepancy between where one is currently situated and the potential for growth and improvement. Like a good teacher, each individual must find their own balance, pushing themselves enough to make progress without overwhelming their abilities.In conclusion, Donald Norman's quote encapsulates the crucial role of tension in the teaching and learning process. By understanding the delicate equilibrium between challenging and supporting students, a good teacher can create an environment that fosters growth, curiosity, and motivation. Learning to embrace and navigate tension is not only applicable within the classroom but also extends to one's personal development journey. By recognizing and harnessing the power of tension, both teachers and students can unlock their full potential, breaking free from the bounds of mediocrity and embracing a lifelong pursuit of knowledge and growth.