Why don't students like school? A cognitive scientist answers questions about how the mind works and what it means for your classroom

"Why don't students like school?" is not a new question in education. In fact, it is a question that returns every time a new program and/or a new national mandate is put into effect. Willingham (psychology, Univ. of Virginia), however, has approached this question with new insight and with a challenge to the old paradigm. From a cognitive scientist's point of view, the author has produced a book on learning that is practitioner based, easy to read, and just plain makes sense. Based on the premise that students have their minds turned off in school rather than ignited for learning, Willingham takes the reader through the research and practical applications to today's classroom that provide a basis for the classroom teacher to improve his or her practice. The author expands the reader's understanding of how teachers and students think and learn, revealing the importance of story, emotion, memory, context, and routine--all concepts in brain research. This is a must read for those wishing to improve their classroom and those looking for ways to help their students be successful. Summing Up: Highly recommended. Lower-division undergraduate collections and above. G. L. Willhite University of Wisconsin - La Crosse