FORM8820 · Education

History of Formative Education

Lynch School of Education & Human Development

Formative education, a concept with a rich historical genealogy, has been a wellspring of inspiration for various educational ideas, thoughts, and models over time. This doctoral course aims to foster a deeper understanding of pivotal moments in the evolution of formative education while nurturing students' skills in conducting historiographical research. It offers a dual invitation: firstly, to explore and examine the philological semantics of formative education, tracing its evolution through historical ideas and practices; secondly, to engage graduate students and researchers in historiographical research within this field. Throughout the course, students will encounter significant instances of formative education, as viewed through the lens of key historiographical works. They will be prompted to reflect on the concepts and models of formative education described in these writings, as well as the methodological and hermeneutical approaches employed to understand, explain, and interpret these concepts and models. In addition to preparing the weekly assigned readings for discussion, students will be tasked with finding and reading supplementary scholarly materials, such as articles, chapters, books, or papers, that deepen their comprehension of the primary reading. The instructor will initially provide a selection of potential supporting readings, gradually encouraging students to explore the broader literature on the weekly topic. FORM 8820 is required for Ph.D. students in Formative Education. Other doctoral students with a special interest in the topic may contact the instructor for permission to take the course.