Mastery: Why Deeper Learning Is Essential in an Age of Distraction

by Tony Wagner, Ulrik Juul Christensen M.D.

Overview

“If you’ve ever wondered why our education system feels stuck in the past, this book delivers both a powerful critique and a bold vision for the future.” —Daniel H. Pink, #1 New York Times–bestselling author of Drive

How much information is forgotten almost immediately after it is taught? How many students graduate from high school unprepared for careers where lifelong learning is essential to succeed? These problems stem from an educational system that uses time spent in a classroom and the results of standardized, multiple-choice tests as proxies for actual understanding. Educators Tony Wagner and Ulrik Juul Christensen call for a radical new system of learning, where students progress individually when they demonstrate that they can use what they have learned—no matter how long it takes to get there. This is called mastery learning, and it is the future of education.

This book shows how mastery learning is already being put to use in the United States and around the world, from kindergarten to college and in the workplace. Through conversations with teachers, students, parents, policymakers, and employers, Wagner and Christensen show how mastery improves motivation and prepares students for productive work, an engaged civic life, and personal growth and well-being. They also outline the challenges of adopting mastery learning and how to overcome them. Mastery is an urgent call to action to transform education for all.  

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781541601925
Publisher:	Basic Books
Publication date:	09/16/2025
Pages:	336
Product dimensions:	6.00(w) x 9.25(h) x 1.12(d)

About the Author

Tony Wagner is senior research fellow at the Learning Policy Institute and former codirector of Harvard Graduate School of Education’s Change Leadership Group. Wagner is the bestselling author of Creating Innovators, The Global Achievement Gap, and more. He lives in New Hampshire.

Ulrik Juul Christensen, MD, is founder and CEO of Area9 Lyceum. Formerly a member of the McGraw Hill executive board, he is a frequent keynote speaker and regular contributor to Forbes, and he serves on several boards including the Technical University of Denmark. He lives outside Boston.

Editorial Reviews

What students learn is important, but so, too, is how and why they learn. In this authoritative guide, Wagner and Christensen unpack mastery learning—an approach that integrates the what, how, and why of learning. Rooted in science, enlivened by stories, and to-the-point with specific recommendations and examples, Mastery is for any teacher, parent, or leader who sees education as the key to a brighter future.”—Angela Duckworth, New York Times-bestselling author of Grit

“If you’ve ever wondered why our education system feels stuck in the past, this book delivers both a powerful critique and a bold vision for the future. With compelling stories and actionable insights, Wagner and Christensen make a powerful case for a new approach built on curiosity, persistence, and real-world skills.”—Daniel H. Pink, #1 New York Times–bestselling author of Drive

“In an age of tremendous uncertainty and constant change, schools will need to radically reform how they treat students—and teachers. Mastery offers a global tour of some of the more promising experiments in redesigning school for modernity.”—Amanda Ripley, New York Times–bestselling author of The Smartest Kids in the World

“Wagner and Christensen deliver a compelling vision for education—children and adults alike—that honors the individuality of every learner. At a time when our systems reward conformity and shallow achievement, Mastery calls for a radical shift—toward learning experiences that are deeply personal, purpose-driven, and focused on real mastery. Drawing on rich insights and concrete examples, the authors show why deeper learning isn’t just better—it’s necessary for helping individuals unlock their full potential. This is an essential read for anyone committed to reimagining education for the age of individuality.”—Todd Rose, author of The End of Average

“In an AI-accelerated world, Mastery makes a compelling case for keeping humans at the center of inquiry—ensuring that our ability to ask the right questions remains a rock-solid foundation for deeper learning, innovation, and adaptability in the 21st century and beyond.” 
 —Hal Gregersen, MIT

From the Publisher