The semester I taught photography to a class of 5th and 6th graders, (they signed up for it and so were motivated) we spent a considerable amount of time studying photographs. Every session included looking at examples of classic photojournalism, as well as the daily newspaper and magazines that caught my eye, or the kids' eyes. We discussed moments and settings, what the photographer had to do to get the picture, timing, classiclal composition.
I think too many photography courses get stuck on the process and the technical stuff. We did that, but always in context of the end result, an image that tells something about the world.
No, you can't teach photographic genius. But you can teach the elements that make a successful photograph. I think, because good photography is so visual, many of the finest photographers have difficulty expressing what they do in words. But when you go to their lectures, you realize their passion is about the story they are telling, not the technical matters related to the capturing of images.
A good teacher cannot create a Mozart of Gerswhin or John Lennon. But music can be taught, and taught well. Writing can be taught. Journalism is taught. Painting can be taught. Diplomacy and negotiating skills can be taught. Leaders are taught at leadership courses -- gifted leaders figure it out for themselves but the very best ones also know they can always be taught something new. And photographic competence can be taught.
