Alden Partridge's lecture on education, manuscript, [1828]
Undated manuscript in Alden Partridge's handwriting, which may have been written in 1828 based on a printed variant of the lecture. The lecture defines elementary education and discusses why current system of education in the U.S. is defective: it is not practical, it neglects physical exercise, students have too much idle time, students allowed too much pocket money, the same course of education is prescribed for all, students are expected to complete their education in a prescribed length of time. His organization of an educational institution, stemming from his 16 years experience, would be strictly military. Military science and instruction would be mandatory because it is useful in reading and writing history, important for legislators, and is useful to the traveler. Would also add classical and scientific instruction, scientific operations in the field (pedestrian excursions), practical agricultural pursuits, lectures on many various subjects, and add mechanic shops to teach use of tools. The day would be divided 8 hours study, 8 hours sleep, 3 hours meals and personal duties, 2 hours military and other physical exercise and 3 hours for agricultural or scientific pursuits and duties and to attend lectures. Advantages cited as gaining as much book knowledge in 6 years as the present system; preparing accomplished soldiers, agriculturists, mechanics, political economists, legislators and statesmen; instilling habits of industry, economy and morality; and a vigorous physical constitution. ; Transcription by Joseph Byrne. Transcriptions may be subject to error.