Causes Quote by Alison Gopnik
“Teaching is a very effective way to get children to learn something specific - this tube squeaks, say, or a squish then a press then a pull causes the music to play. But it also makes children less likely to discover unexpected information and to draw unexpected conclusions.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Gardener and the Carpenter, 2016, Alison Gopnik on teaching methods
Explicit teaching can limit children's discovery of unexpected information.
In simple terms: Too much guidance can stifle curiosity.
Allow space for open‑ended exploration.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- classroom design
- parental interaction
- curriculum planning
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How can teachers balance instruction and discovery?
- What methods foster unexpected insights?
Over‑guidance may hinder innovative thinking.