Psychology and the new education / by S. L. Pressey.

  • Pressey, Sidney L. (Sidney Leavitt), 1888-1979.
Date:
1933
Catalogue details

Licence: In copyright

Credit: Psychology and the new education / by S. L. Pressey. Source: Wellcome Collection.

    609/638 (page 571)
    THE Present STATUS OF RESEARCH REGARDING GENERAL TRAINING This chapter has aimed to illustrate, by sample investiga- tions, some of the most difficult and subtle problems in psy- chological and educational research. In summary, what now appears to have been discovered regarding these problems— with special reference always to the question as to what more may legitimately be hoped for? The following points seem of special significance. Most immediate and very important is this first conclu- sion: Even the most subtle and baffling of educational and psychological problems—problems concerned with the de- velopment of esthetic appreciation, attitudes, character traits, and methods of work and thinking—can be investi- gated. Such problems are neither intrinsically impossible of research attack, nor too difficult for attack by the methods now available. Rather, because of their complexity and sub- tlety research is especially needed. Even such initial studies as have here been reported make clear that exceedingly fruitful reformulations of points of view and methods of dealing with these educational problems may be expected from research. Still more encouraging is the second conclusion. Problems of general training can be dealt with by education—though education may have largely to reformulate its methods for so doing, and reformulate (make much more specific) hy- potheses regarding these problems. Methods of work can be improved. A classroom teacher does influence the honesty of her children. Moving pictures do affect the attitudes of chil- dren, and homes do affect the esthetic sensitivity of those who grow up in them. In fact, the clear evidence of the