Students often work hardest for teachers they like or look-up-to or respect most. So for many students, explaining things well is one necessary but not sufficient teacher characteristic.

Your point is important, and needs to be made. We do need teacher who both understand and explain things well. But in most discussions on education, I am troubled by the lack of emphasis placed on the role teachers have in motivating students, and whether proximity will have an effect there.

When we look back on our school or college days, and think of our most influencial teachers, what stands out most?