The Elements of Learning

This engaging and helpful book is both a thoughtful celebration of the learning process and a practical guide to becoming a better student. Written by the authors of the acclaimed Elements of Teaching it is designed to help students of all ages-particularly high school and college students-attain their full potential for success in any area of study. James M. Banner Jr. and Harold C. Cannon explore the qualities needed to get the most out of education: industry enthusiasm pleasure curiosity aspiration imagination self-discipline civility cooperation honesty and initiative. For each of these elements they offer general reflections useful suggestions and a description of a fictional student who either embodies or lacks these qualities. The second part of the book helps students understand the environment in which they learn by focusing on such topics as teachers the curriculum ways of learning and the transition from school to college. The core points of the text are reinforced by answers to questions that haunt students as well as tips on what to do to become the best student possible. Throughout the authors encourage students to consider learning as part of their lives and to be active participants in their own education.

James M. Banner, Jr., is an independent scholar, writer, teacher, association director, and book publisher. Harold C. Cannon, now retired, was division director at the National Endowment for the Humanities.