The New Education A Review of Progressive Educational Movements of the Day (1915)   By: Scott Nearing (1883-1983)

In the book "The New Education: A Review of Progressive Educational Movements of the Day" written by Scott Nearing in 1915, the author provides a comprehensive analysis of the emerging progressive educational movements of that era. Nearing's work serves as a significant historical reference, offering valuable insights into the alternative approaches to education that were gaining popularity at the time.

Throughout the book, Nearing explores various aspects of progressive education, including its underlying principles, methods of instruction, curriculum design, and the overall impact it could have on students and society. He delves into the works of prominent educational philosophers such as John Dewey, emphasizing their ideas on experiential learning, student-centered approaches, and the integration of real-life experiences into the classroom.

One of the strengths of Nearing's book is his meticulous research and clear presentation of the different progressive educational theories. He explores various pedagogical approaches, from the Montessori method to hands-on manual training, highlighting their potential benefits and drawbacks. By examining the principles and practices of these pioneering movements, Nearing paints a vivid picture of the evolving educational landscape of the time.

Furthermore, Nearing's analysis includes case studies and practical examples from different progressive schools and educators. He showcases the efforts made by these institutions to create immersive learning environments that foster critical thinking, creativity, and individuality. By highlighting the successes and challenges faced by these schools, Nearing provides a balanced representation of the realities of progressive education.

While the book offers a comprehensive overview of progressive educational movements, it should be noted that it primarily reflects the era in which it was written. Moreover, some readers might find the content of the book dense, as Nearing's writing style can be somewhat verbose and academic.

Nevertheless, "The New Education" remains a valuable historical document offering a well-researched and in-depth analysis of the emerging progressive educational movements. It is particularly relevant for educators, historians, and anyone interested in the history and evolution of educational philosophies. By understanding the past, readers can gain valuable perspectives that may inform current educational practices and facilitate meaningful discourse about the future of education.

First Page:

During 1910, 1911, and 1912, as a part of a general plan to write a book on education, I reread a great deal of the classical educational literature, and carefully perused most of the current material in magazine and book form. An interest aroused by undergraduate and graduate work in the department of pedagogy had been whetted by the revolutionary activity in every field of educational endeavor. The time seemed ripe for an effective piece of constructive educational writing, yet I could not see my way clear to begin it. Glaring faults there were; remedies appeared ready at hand and easy of application; the will of an aroused public opinion alone seemed to be lacking... Continue reading book >>