What were the two important trends in American education in the early 1800s?

Answer 1

The infrastructure for American education was in place before the American Revolution and the new nation had an impact on the establishment of the purpose and content of education. The welfare of the new nation depended on loyalty, vision, and the skill of its citizens. It was considered important the teaching of republican virtues and this became the central goal of education. George Washington identified 4 needs for the continued independence of the United States. The most important of these was the goal of an educated citizenry and to "enable a citizen to properly discharge his responsibilities as a member of a free society." By 1855 it became clear that more public schools were needed to teach the large population of foreign born settling within the country and cities. It was felt that the public schools needed to combat the social classes, train students for economic productivity and teach democratic self discipline. At the same a discussion happened about what education was and how reform should be accomplished ( same as today). One item was that education was for utility and a second was that education was for knowledge and general intelligence. In this time several technological and economic developments made it possible to support more schools, serve more students, and provide schooling for longer time periods. By 1879 public schools were established through out the country and the first public high schools were also established in this time.

Answer 2

Educational philosophy, policy, institutions, as well as formal and informal learning in America from the 17th century to today.