Education in the 19th Century: Exploring the Roots of Modern Education  

Education in the 19th Century: 2 Main Types | Future Education Magazine

S
H
A
R
E

Education plays the most important role, and education in the 19th century was the era that played a huge role in setting the roots of modern education. The rise of social and economic changes in society led to increased demands for political responsibilities and informed citizenship such as educated government, reformers, and workers. 

The 19th century played a significant role in forming society in the field of education, it provided a pathway to improve the social and economic status and to get opportunities. It also contributed to advancing the culture, literature, modern science, and arts, by promoting innovative ideas. 

In this article, we will explore the insights into education in the 19th century, by understanding its importance, key figures, types of curriculum, and accessibility. 

Educational Reformers Who Brought Revolution in the 19th Century 

Education in the 19th Century: 2 Main Types | Future Education Magazine
Image by powerofforever from Getty Images Signature

The education system in the 19th century was very different from the education in the 21st century.  Earlier, the way of learning was very different, as the subjects focused on areas such as arithmetic and grammar, which we also learn today, but they more focus on memorizing information. There was a gap in the education system between rich people and poor people. 

Here we will learn about the reformers who brought revolution to the education system in the 19th century. 

1. Horace Mann is also known as the father of American Public Education. According to Mann, education should not be considered a luxury, that can only be afforded by rich people. He was a strong supporter of universal public schooling and free education. He worked very hard to establish an educational system that would provide education to all children, whether they come from any social or economic background. He mainly stressed the importance of skilled and trained teachers and a standardized educational curriculum, which can make the solid foundation for modern public education in the United States.

2. Friedrich Froebel, a German reformer, introduced the concept of kindergarten, emphasizing the importance of play in early childhood education. He believed that learning through fun and hands-on activities plays a massive role in building a strong foundation in education during childhood. His concept of kindergarten was widely appreciated and accepted.  

3. John Dewey, who was more active in the middle of the 19th and 20th centuries, was very influenced by the educational reforms that happened during the 19th century, so he emphasized progressive education, experiment-based learning, and critical thinking over memorization. He believed that education should be a part of students’ lives, that can promote democratic values. 

Types of Education System in the 19th Century

Education in the 19th Century: 2 Main Types | Future Education Magazine
Image by Branislav from Getty Images

The education system in the 19th century can be broadly categorized into two main types: Formal education and Informal education system. 

Formal EducationInformal Education
Formal education was a structured learning that typically followed in schools and universities. This type of education is based on a systematic curriculum and it comprises different levels of education such as primary, secondary, and higher.Formal education was a structured learning that typically followed in schools and universities. This type of education is based on a systematic curriculum and it comprises different levels of education such as primary, secondary, and higher.
Public schools emerged as a crucial aspect of the formal education system in the 19th century, providing free and accessible education to children from different social and economic backgrounds to give opportunities to the children to learn skills.  In the informal education system, friends, families, and the community play a crucial role by inculcating traditions, values, and practical knowledge and skills. Learning through community interactions helps shape an individual’s understanding of the world.
Universities started flourishing parallel to the public schools. They started offering advanced education, and specialized training by becoming the center for research and intellectual development. In informal education type, religious institutes had played a major role by providing moral guidance and teaching various subjects. which aimed to provide education to the children on academics and spirituality. 

Changes in Academic Curriculum

The system of education in the 19th century witnessed a remarkable change that demanded advancement in the academic curriculum. The approaches that have been taken during this century have set the roots for modern learning practices. Traditionally, academics were mainly centered on classical subjects like Greek, Latin, and philosophy. However, there has been a step taken toward practical subjects that better prepare students to tackle real-life challenges.

This includes areas like business studies, vocational training sessions, and essential life skills, that align the education with the future career options. Subjects like Science and technology have also become important parts of the modern curriculum, which includes fields like engineering, life sciences, and more. Traditional methods of teaching were replaced by modern teaching methods.  

Education Access in the 19th Century

Education in the 19th Century: 2 Main Types | Future Education Magazine
slowfacts.wordpress.com

In the 19th century, access to education started expanding, but it was still limited to the upper class of society. Earlier, education was considered a luxury, and limited to only wealthy white males, while others like women, of any class, poor people, African Americans, and immigrants were not allowed to get an education. While boys were encouraged to pursue higher education and careers, whereas girls were often taught basic reading, writing, and domestic skills to prepare them for roles within the home.

However, in the 19th century, despite these obstacles, efforts by reformers and activists started to create educational opportunities. Laws related to compulsory education were introduced in the 19th century to provide a basic level of education to all.

Conclusion

Education in the 19th century was a revolutionary period, which transformed the traditional education system into the modern one. This period saw the introduction of formal schooling for more people, the fight for gender equality in education, efforts to educate marginalized communities, and the implementation of laws to ensure access to education. The changes made in the 19th century formed the foundation for modern education systems. They highlighted the importance of education for all and set the stage for continued progress in achieving equity in learning opportunities. 

Most Popular Stories