This speech focuses on the thesis that most good teachers cannot explain the psychological principles underlying their sound teaching practices. They appear to be unaware of the large body of theoretical and experimental evidence supporting one educational procedure over another. Through reference to a film showing a teacher teaching social studies teaching methods are reviewed in their theoretical framework; including such methods as setting the stage for learning, creating a democratic classroom environment, establishing continuity (Gestalt psychology), removing the immediate blocks to learning, using supplementary materials, and designing assignments with the children. Using these methods and others a teacher sets the stage for the child to do his own learning. (ED)