How Mediated Learning Can Make You a Better Educator: Lessons from Jeanne Zehr’s ‘The Master Teacher’
Written by Ruthie Cohen
June 9th 2025
In the dynamic world of education, one approach has transformed classrooms around the globe—Mediated Learning Experience (MLE), the cornerstone of the Feuerstein Method.
For decades, direct instruction has been the gold standard in schools. But what if there was a way to go deeper? What if, beyond delivering content, teachers could awaken their students’ ability to think, analyze, and grow?
Dr. Jeanne Zehr, a veteran educator and passionate advocate for the Feuerstein Method, explores this profound shift in her chapter The Master Teacher. Her journey—from school principal to international trainer in mediated learning—offers educators a practical, inspiring roadmap toward becoming true catalysts of cognitive development.
Mediated learning is one of the most powerful tools a teacher can use to help students become independent, reflective, and successful learners. In her insightful chapter “The Master Teacher”, Dr. Jeanne Zehr explores how this core principle of the Feuerstein Method transforms traditional instruction—and helps educators evolve from instructors into true cognitive coaches. After reading her work, we felt compelled to share the most impactful lessons and encourage every educator to dive deeper into her approach.
The Shift: From What to How
Traditional education emphasizes what to learn—facts, formulas, and frameworks. But true education, as envisioned by Prof. Reuven Feuerstein, goes a step further. It asks: Do our students know how to learn?
The Feuerstein Method teaches that intelligence is not fixed—it is modifiable. Through Mediated Learning Experience (MLE), educators help students become autonomous learners capable of reflection, self-regulation, and strategic thinking.
"Mediation really taught me how to guide a student instead of just giving them the answer."
Cherise Copeland
Grade 5 Teacher
What Is Mediation in Education?
Mediated Learning Experience (MLE) is a structured yet deeply human method of interaction where the teacher acts as a mediator between the student and the learning task. Unlike direct instruction, where knowledge flows one way, mediation fosters a reciprocal, thought-provoking exchange that:
Builds metacognition
Encourages active engagement
Develops 28 core cognitive skills identified by Feuerstein
Empowers learners to become “champions of their own success”
Common mediation questions include:
“What do you see?”
“What is the challenge?”
“What strategy have you tried?”
“How will you know if it’s right?”
These questions may seem simple, but they open profound cognitive doors—helping learners analyze, problem-solve, and reflect.
Why It Matters—Globally
From Cambodia to Indiana, and Australia to Michigan, Dr. Zehr’s training experiences reveal a universal truth: Students are not failing because they lack intelligence—they are disengaging because they are not taught how to learn.
Mediated learning addresses this gap. It transforms “empty promises” of school mottos like “Champions of Our Own Success” into real outcomes by teaching students how to think and giving them tools to succeed—academically, socially, and emotionally.
The Seesaw: Balancing Instruction and Mediation
Master teachers skillfully navigate the balance between direct instruction and mediation. Both are necessary:
Direct instruction ensures curriculum coverage and clarity.
Mediated learning ensures comprehension, cognitive growth, and internalization.
As Dr. Zehr writes, “You don’t mediate all the time, but you shift to mediation when you want to know if the child has changed.”
Every Learner Is Unique
Feuerstein’s approach recognizes that each learner requires different kinds of mediation. Some may need help developing self-confidence. Others may need guidance in focusing or planning. The master teacher adapts—not the lesson plan, but the interaction.
"Mediation really taught me how to guide a student instead of just giving them the answer."
Cherise Copeland
Grade 5 Teacher
Mediation and the Brain
Neuroscience confirms what Feuerstein believed decades ago: Brains can change. Through challenges, reflection, and intentional interaction, neurons grow dendrites, creating new connections. Mediation isn’t just teaching—it’s brain-building.
Students learn about neurons, build models with pipe cleaners, and understand that each challenge helps grow their thinking brain. It’s not just motivating—it’s empowering.
Final Thoughts
Incorporating mediated learning into the classroom may take time, patience, and practice—but the results are undeniable. Students become more engaged, thoughtful, and capable. Teachers gain insight, satisfaction, and the joy of witnessing real growth.
If you’re a teacher striving to become a master educator—or a parent seeking more than just grades for your child—explore the Feuerstein Method. With every “aha” moment in a classroom, we move one step closer to education that truly empowers.
If this blog post has sparked your interest, we can’t recommend Dr. Zehr’s full chapter enough. It is both heartfelt and research-informed, filled with real voices of teachers and powerful examples from classrooms around the world.
Download or read “The Master Teacher” by Dr. Jeanne Zehr (PDF)
"Personally, after 23 years in public education, I believe Feuerstein's Instrumental Enrichment and Mediated Learning Experience is the best tool you will ever have."
—Karyl Haden
Colorado