General Theory of Education - Twentieth Century Chinese Education Classics Series

Author: Meng Xiancheng
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2006-09-01
Features: This book is an expanded and revised version of Meng Xiancheng's "Introduction to Education" compiled in 1993, based on the current "Normal School Curriculum Standards." Regarding its format, a brief explanation is offered to the readers: (1) Organization of the textbook: Following the "Textbook Outline" in the "Curriculum Standards," it is categorized and arranged into ten chapters, which can be divided into three groups: I. Historical Introduction, consisting of three chapters; II. The Significance and Purpose of Education, consisting of three chapters; III. Teaching and Instruction in National Schools, consisting of four chapters. (2) Reading and Questions: The textbook is a "minimum-level teaching material." While teachers are expected to use it flexibly, students should also engage in extensive extracurricular reading and discussion. The book titles listed at the end of each chapter are selected to be easily accessible and readable for students. Teachers may refer to more advanced reference materials, which are compiled as a separate list at the end of the book. The questions are also related to reading. They aim to stimulate discussion rather than serve as mere review exercises. (3) Explanation of Terms: It is crucial for students to understand scientific terminology to prepare for specialized research. Many disputes and misunderstandings in theoretical discussions arise from confusion and ambiguity in concepts. The book avoids unnecessary complexity and provides comparisons and distinctions for many psychological and sociological concepts. An English-Chinese glossary of terms is appended at the end for reference.