The Elements of Teaching

March 3, 1997
Teaching as an art is given much-needed attention in this guided tour through its intricacies by two experienced and empathetic cicerones. Banner, formerly of the Princeton history faculty, and Cannon, former dean at Manhattanville College, speak to teachers and aspirants about the personal qualities of those they deem good teachers. Rather than focus on the techniques of imparting knowledge, the authors emphasize the human factor-those qualities that either are natural or can be acquired. Drawing on their own varied teaching experiences and using fictional composites who comprise "attributes of teachers-virtues or vices-that have existed somewhere, sometime." Their perfect teacher has gravitas, empathy, ethics, high standards, patience with the faults of the young, recognition of the tenability of different viewpoints and a command of their subject combined with an absolute belief that it can be transmitted intelligently and imaginatively to their students. While the principles enunciated are ideals, the authors are realists, offering encouragement in this relevant appreciation of "the gift of self that is teaching's greatest satisfaction."

September 15, 1999
Augmenting and reprising their earlier Elements of Teaching, Banner (formerly Princeton Univ.) and Cannon (formerly Manhanttanville Coll.) outline the 12 qualities students should possess to get the most out of their educational experience (Part 1) and the who's, what's, and how's of learning (Part 2). Throughout, students are encouraged to take responsibility for their own learning; the short, coherent chapters close with suggestions for putting the concepts into practice. The chapters can be read in any order, and some can be postponed until need dictates. Intended for high schoolers, college students, and mature learners (people over 25 years old returning to school), this thoughtful and reassuring text offers kindly advice to a new generation. A good supplemental course text or library resource for units on study methods; for academic libraries.--Scott R. Johnson, Whittemore Park Middle Sch., Conway, SC

Copyright 1999 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

February 15, 1997
Considering teaching a calling, not merely a vocation, Banner and Cannon posit the essential qualities of a teacher as they've observed them from lifetimes in the field. For teachers either worn out or full of energy, Banner and Cannon's exhortations and admonishments ought to be inspiring, for their regard for teaching as a noble endeavor permeates this short tract. They're not just strokers of self-esteem, however; a certain degree of committed self-denial, they argue, is the mark of great teachers. Much as teachers might like individual students, they must be scrupulously evenhanded. If bored by slow learners, they must also be imaginative enough to break through to them. The authors arrange such axioms under value-laden headings such as "Authority," "Ethics," and "Compassion," followed by composite sketches of a teacher embodying or sloughing off their principles. The authors hope their observations will serve as a catalyst for teachers to discuss excellence among themselves and cause those considering the career to assess their own suitability. An effective, reflective guide. ((Reviewed February 15, 1997))(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 1997, American Library Association.)