International Encyclopaedia of Education

The International Encyclopaedia of Education is the result of the cooperative efforts of several hundred specialists, who have here contributed the results of their study to the systematization of educational ideas and practices. That no such vastly comprehensive and complete encyclopaedia has ever appeared is the justification for this project. This work represents the product of long investigation on the part of most of the contributors, and is the immediate outcome of several years of special effort on the part of the editors. Three conditions indicate clearly the need of such a work. First, the vast and varied character of educational literature, indicative of a corresponding variety of educational ideas and practice. Second, the growing importance of education as a social process, and Third, the great numerical strength of the teaching profession and its rapidly changing personnel. The vast and growing literature indicates not only a vigorous interest in educational problems and practices, but is evidence also of an equally great diversity in views and practices. It is evident that the rank and file of the teaching profession are hopelessly lost in the maze of material, and that some guidance is necessary even to those most thoroughly prepared to seek for the sanest ideas and the soundest practice. The splendidly formed volumes of this very famous set include a concise discussion of all topics of importance and interest to the teacher, and will give such information concerning every division of educational practice as is essential to a book of reference. Completeness of treatment is not designed. Completeness of scope is attempted. Every aspect of education as an art and as a science are treated. Every important method or educational device that is advocated now or has found a place in the past is defined and evaluated. Each of these articles includes an historical treatment as well as an analysis of contemporary conditions. Every important point in educational administration, supervision and management are treated by specialists. The set covers areas like Philosophy and Science of Education, History of Education, Educational Biography, Educational institutions, Elementary, Secondary and Higher Education, the curriculum, Educational Administration and supervision, systems of Education, Educational Methods, general and special Educational Psychology, Hygiene and institutional Architecture. The entire work is organised not simply as a book of reference, but also as a systematic treatise on each phase of the subject of such an organisation of materials, so heterogeneous in character, it is hoped that greater unity may be given to our educational thought and a greater uniformity may result in educational practice.