Skip to content

Able Quote by William James

“The difference between an interesting and a tedious teacher consists in little more than the inventiveness by which the one is able to mediate these associations and connections, and in the dullness in discovering such transitions which the other shows.” quote by William James
Download Open image
“The difference between an interesting and a tedious teacher consists in little more than the inventiveness by which the one is able to mediate these associations and connections, and in the dullness in discovering such transitions which the other shows.”

William James

About This Quote

Source Book: The Principles of Psychology, 1890

Teaching effectiveness hinges on creative mediation of ideas versus rote presentation of facts.

In simple terms: Creative teaching engages; dull teaching merely presents.

Key Takeaway

Cultivate inventive connections in lessons.

Themes

education creativity engagement

Mood

inspired thoughtful

Type

educational motivational

When to use this quote

  • classroom instruction
  • online courses
  • workshops
  • training sessions

Key Concepts

Pedagogy cognitive mediation

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you make abstract concepts relatable?
  • What methods spark curiosity in learners?
A Different Perspective

Even inventive teachers may lack depth if content is shallow.

3.5 out of 5 (6 ratings)

More by William James

Explore all 854 William James quotes

More Able quotes

Browse all 17,006 Able quotes