How the Generallandschulreglement Started the Modern School System

We live in a world where it is common for children in most countries to have access to government-sponsored education. The public school system, as we know it, is a relatively recent human innovation. The first significant breakthrough occurred in the 18th century in Prussia, which established the first state-sponsored education system, supplementing the traditional methods that were previously based on parental or church instruction.

In 1763, the Prussian Government published the Generallandschulreglement, a decree by Frederick the Great that mandated and structured education for all. This decree included specialized buildings dedicated solely to schooling, the formal certification of teachers, a standardized curriculum across all schools, an extended academic year, and mandated attendance for all children.

The Prussian model of education was developed by reformers such as Johann Gottlieb Fichte and Wilhelm von Humboldt following Prussia's defeats in the Napoleonic Wars. They believed that a well-organized, state-controlled education system could strengthen the nation by fostering a sense of national identity and loyalty in young people. The curriculum was carefully designed to promote obedience and discipline, which were seen as essential qualities for producing good soldiers and law-abiding citizens.

This approach led to significant improvements in literacy rates and economic efficiency. However, the Prussian system also had significant downsides, particularly in terms of individuality and intellectual freedom. Despite these criticisms, its structure was adopted and adapted by many other nations around the world throughout the 19th and 20th centuries, contributing to a boost in child literacy.Go deeper: The Learning Game: Teaching Kids to Think for Themselves, Embrace Challenge, and Love Learning - Ana Lorena Fabrega

Craving more? Check out the source behind this Brain Snack!