Emphasizing socialization is one of the big tools of highly-ranked education systems. Students benefit from explaining it to others by forcing them to clarify

Emphasizing socialization is one of the big tools of highly-ranked education systems. Students benefit from explaining it to others by forcing them to clarify and solidify their own mental models; the other kids understand their peers more quickly and when multiple mental models form, the students can explain it to each other for multiple perspectives. If it's a powerful tool, teachers should use it. Understanding is more important than grades; too many variables affect grades to make them a great predictor. Edit: Reminder that American education is often bullshit and leaves jaded students. Just because something is useful doesn't mean our teachers use it in a way such that it is useful. I also recommend teaching somebody something and if possible taking a class with intelligent people that is out of your element. For me, a topology course with a focus on discussion was incredible.