Books Should Be Free
Loyal Books
Free Public Domain Audiobooks & eBook Downloads
Search by: Title, Author or Keyword

A Dominie in Doubt   By: (1883-1973)

Book cover

A Dominie in Doubt by Alexander Sutherland Neill is a thought-provoking and controversial memoir that sheds light on the education system of the early 20th century. Neill, a Scottish educator and founder of the progressive Summerhill School, candidly reflects on his experiences as a schoolteacher and principal, presenting a scathing critique of traditional teaching methods and the oppressive structures within the system.

The book takes us on a journey through Neill's career, starting with his first teaching assignment in a remote rural village. Through his rich and vivid storytelling, we are transported to a time when harsh discipline and rote learning dominated classrooms. Neill's descriptions of the unimaginative, authoritarian teachers he encountered and the subsequent impact on their students are eye-opening and, at times, distressing.

What sets this memoir apart from others is Neill's honesty and self-awareness. Throughout the narrative, he questions his own beliefs and practices, delving deep into the doubts that plagued him as an educator. He bravely examines his own successes and failures, exploring how he borrowed from different education philosophies to challenge the norm and create a more student-centered approach. His constant self-reflection makes the narrative relatable and engaging for educators and parents alike.

While A Dominie in Doubt is primarily focused on Neill's personal experiences, it is impossible to ignore the lessons it imparts about the broader education system. Neill unapologetically calls out the detrimental effects of conformity, examinations, and the rigid one-size-fits-all curriculum. He challenges readers to question the purpose of education and to prioritize the emotional well-being and individual creativity of students. His advocacy for freedom and autonomy in the classroom is both radical and inspiring.

However, one must approach this book with an open mind, as Neill's ideas and practices have been met with controversy. Critics argue that his approach grants too much freedom to students, leading to a lack of discipline and a neglect of foundational skills. Some may also find his views on sex education and discipline unconventional or even inappropriate. Nevertheless, it is important to remember that Neill's intention was never to provide a universal solution, but rather to challenge the established norms and encourage critical thinking.

In conclusion, A Dominie in Doubt is a compelling and courageous memoir that showcases Alexander Sutherland Neill's journey as an educator and his quest to revolutionize the education system. Whether you agree with his methods or not, this book is an important contribution to the dialogue around educational reform. It is an invitation to question the status quo and consider the ultimate purpose of education in nurturing the whole child.

First Page:

A DOMINIE IN DOUBT

BY

A. S. NEILL, M.A.

BY THE SAME AUTHOR

A DOMINIE'S LOG A DOMINIE DISMISSED THE BOOMING OF BUNKIE

HERBERT JENKINS LIMITED

3 YORK STREET ST. JAMES'S

LONDON S.W.1

MCMXXI

DEDICATION.

To Homer Lane, whose first lecture convinced me that I knew nothing about education. I owe much to him, but I hasten to warn educationists that they must not hold him responsible for the views given in these pages. I never understood him fully enough to expound his wonderful educational theories.

A. S. N.

FORFAR, AUGUST 12, 1920.

A DOMINIE IN DOUBT

I.

"Just give me your candid opinion of A Dominie's Log; I'd like to hear it."

Macdonald looked up from digging into the bowl of his pipe with a dilapidated penknife. He is now head master of Tarbonny Public School, a school I know well, for I taught in it for two years as an ex pupil teacher.

Six days ago he wrote asking me to come and spend a holiday with him, so I hastily packed my bag and made for Euston.

This evening had been a sort of complimentary dinner in my honour, the guests being neighbouring dominies and their wives, none of whom I knew. We had talked of the war, of rising prices, and a thousand other things. Suddenly someone mentioned education, and of course my unfortunate Log had come under discussion... Continue reading book >>




eBook Downloads
ePUB eBook
• iBooks for iPhone and iPad
• Nook
• Sony Reader
Kindle eBook
• Mobi file format for Kindle
Read eBook
• Load eBook in browser
Text File eBook
• Computers
• Windows
• Mac

Review this book



Popular Genres
More Genres
Languages
Paid Books