Legendary coach John Wooden outlined the key qualities of an effective teacher, emphasizing continuous self-improvement and openness to learning from others. As he noted: "He must continually look for ways to improve himself in order to improve others and welcome each person and anything that might be useful to him. As has been said, he must remember that 'others have brains too.'"
Related: How to set a good example
Wooden, drawing from his renowned career in basketball, identified these 10 criteria for exceptional teaching:
- Knowledge of your subject
"It's what you learn once you know everything that matters."
Wooden built his basketball expertise through playing under coaches like Earl Warner, Glenn Curtiss, and Piggy Lambert. As a college player, he interviewed opposing coaches. In high school coaching, he observed Frank Leahy's practices at Notre Dame for time management insights. Post-season, he surveyed top coaches on specific topics. Even late in his career, he attended clinics with an open mind. - General knowledge
"Learn as if you will live forever, live as if you will die tomorrow."
Wooden studied psychology to enhance his teaching. An avid reader, he drew life philosophy from books on Mother Teresa and Abraham Lincoln, sharing these insights with students for a well-rounded intellectual approach. - Teaching skill
"You get better ideas from listening and a pat on the back than from a kick in the pants."
Wooden believed great teachers learn from their students. - Professional attitude
"Learn to disagree without being disagreeable."
In any workplace, handling conflicts with an open mind, calm, and reason marks true professionalism. - Discipline
"You cannot antagonize and exert a positive influence at the same time, nor can you influence when you discipline through emotion."
Discipline in learning environments teaches, not punishes. - Classroom Organization (Floor)
"There is no substitute for hard work and careful planning."
Wooden planned each 2.5-hour practice session over two hours daily. - School and Community Relations
"The happiest times in life come from making someone else happy."
Wooden volunteered enthusiastically in school and community activities, viewing it as a joyful responsibility. - Teacher-student (coach-player) relationship
"Our young people need examples more than criticism."
Setting examples, instructing with reason, and listening fosters productive relationships. - Warm personality and genuine consideration for others
"Care more about loving than being loved, giving than receiving, be a friend rather than having a friend." - Desire to improve
"When success turns your head, you face failure."
Striving for improvement, even amid success, defines a great teacher.
Related: 8 key elements of a good working relationship
