Daniel Willingham

Why Don't Students Like School?

1. IDEA 1

   The brain avoids hard thinking

   Willingham, a cognitive scientist, explains that the human brain is not naturally built for thinking, which is slow and effortful. People enjoy thinking only when problems are challenging but solvable.

2. IDEA 2

   Curiosity needs the right challenge

   Willingham argues that people feel curious when a problem seems within reach. Too easy or too hard, and interest fades. In his account, a puzzle that feels solvable draws people in, while one that feels impossible or trivial does not.

3. IDEA 3

   Knowledge makes thinking possible

   Willingham argues that skills such as critical thinking depend on background knowledge. People cannot reason well about things they know little about. In his view, knowing facts gives the mind material to compare, link and judge.

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