Access and Attendance:
* Limited access: Not everyone had access to education. Rural areas, particularly in the South, often lacked adequate schools.
* Limited attendance: Even for those who had access, attendance rates were much lower than today. Children often left school to work, especially in families struggling to make ends meet.
* Segregation: Schools were racially segregated in many parts of the United States.
Curriculum and Pedagogy:
* Focus on basics: The curriculum emphasized the "3 Rs" - reading, writing, and arithmetic. Higher-level subjects like science and history were often limited.
* Rote learning: Education was heavily focused on memorization and repetition, with less emphasis on critical thinking and creativity.
* Discipline: Teachers were expected to maintain strict discipline. Corporal punishment was not uncommon.
* Teacher training: Teacher training was often inadequate, with many teachers having limited formal education themselves.
Other Key Features:
* One-room schoolhouses: These were common in rural areas, serving students of various ages in a single room.
* Lack of technology: There were no computers, internet, or even widespread electricity in schools.
* Emphasis on vocational training: For many students, the goal of education was to prepare for a trade or manual labor.
* Social and economic factors: Access to education was heavily influenced by socioeconomic status. Children from wealthier families were more likely to attend school and receive a higher quality education.
Changes and Trends:
* Growing demand for education: As the 20th century progressed, there was a growing recognition of the importance of education for economic and social advancement.
* Rise of public schools: The system of public schools expanded and became more accessible to a wider range of students.
* Shift toward progressive education: Progressive educators, like John Dewey, advocated for a more child-centered approach to learning, emphasizing hands-on experiences and critical thinking.
Overall, education in the 1900s was characterized by limited access, a focus on basic skills, and a rigid, traditional approach. However, the 20th century saw significant changes and advancements in education, paving the way for the diverse and technology-driven system we have today.