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A teacher who can show good, or indeed astounding results…

“A teacher who can show good, or indeed astounding results while he is teaching, is still not on that account a good teacher, for it may be that, while his pupils are under his immediate influence, he raises them to a level which is not natural to them, without developing their own capacities for…” quote by Ludwig Wittgenstein
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“A teacher who can show good, or indeed astounding results while he is teaching, is still not on that account a good teacher, for it may be that, while his pupils are under his immediate influence, he raises them to a level which is not natural to them, without developing their own capacities for work at this level, so that they immediately decline again once the teacher leaves the schoolroom.”

Ludwig Wittgenstein

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

A teacher’s short‑term success doesn’t guarantee lasting learning; without fostering independent ability, students regress once guidance ends.

In simple terms: Good teaching builds lasting skill, not just temporary results.

Key Takeaway

Sustainable education requires developing autonomy.

Themes

education pedagogy learning autonomy

Mood

analytical critical

Type

didactic philosophical

When to use this quote

  • designing curricula
  • mentor‑mentee programs
  • skill‑training workshops

Key Concepts

transfer of learning dependency theory

Practical Applications

  • Focus on metacognitive strategies
  • Encourage self‑directed practice

Questions to Reflect On

  • What signs indicate true mastery versus temporary performance?
  • How can teachers balance guidance with independence?
A Different Perspective

Exceptional short‑term outcomes can sometimes mask deeper instructional flaws.

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