Why Good Teaching Matters More Than Perfect Infrastructure

In conversations about education today, infrastructure often takes centre stage—smart classrooms, modern labs, advanced equipment and sprawling campuses. While these elements undoubtedly enhance the learning experience, they do not define it. At its core, education is shaped far more by the quality of teaching than the sophistication of facilities.

A well-designed classroom means little without a teacher who can bring concepts to life. Students rarely remember the layout of a lab or the technology used in a lecture hall, but they do remember teachers who made difficult subjects engaging, accessible and even enjoyable. Good teaching creates connection—between ideas and application, between curiosity and understanding.

Abhishek Maitra, a Senior Application Developer and Apeejay Stya University alumnus, works with a US-based engineering software firm that builds applications for industrial design and analysis. Reflecting on his college years as a mechanical engineering student, he recalls how one particular subject stood out, not because of the infrastructure, but because of the way it was taught. “Workshops were never considered the most exciting part of the curriculum,” he says, “but the way they were conducted made them memorable and genuinely engaging.”

This distinction is important. Infrastructure supports learning, but teaching drives it. A skilled educator can turn even routine or challenging subjects into meaningful experiences. By encouraging participation, simplifying complex ideas and connecting theory with practice, good teachers create an environment where students feel motivated to learn.

On the other hand, even the most advanced facilities cannot compensate for uninspired teaching. Without guidance, context or engagement, students may struggle to fully utilise available resources. Learning becomes mechanical, and curiosity often takes a back seat.

Good teaching also plays a crucial role in building confidence. When students are encouraged to ask questions, make mistakes and explore ideas freely, they develop a stronger grasp of subjects and a willingness to take intellectual risks. These qualities extend far beyond the classroom and into professional life.