John Franklin Bobbitt
What the Schools Teach and Might Teach
"What the Schools Teach and Might Teach" by Franklin Bobbitt is an educational report written during the early 20th century. This analysis is part of a larger Cleveland Education Survey from 1915, focusing on the curriculum and practice of public schooling in Cleveland, Ohio. The book seeks to address the "essentials" of education within the context of community needs and proposes recommendations for a more responsive educational framework that aligns with the complexities of modern society. At the start of the work, the author discusses the need for schools to evolve and adapt their curricula to better prepare students for the responsibilities and realities they will face as adults. Bobbitt emphasizes that education should not only impart knowledge but also cultivate the ability to think critically and engage in adult activities through participation and systematic teaching. He outlines how various subjects, including reading, mathematics, and history, are currently being taught and critiques their effectiveness in meeting modern educational demands. Through a detailed examination of Cleveland's educational strategies, the opening portion sets the stage for discussion on curriculum reform aimed at fostering a well-rounded, socially engaged citizenry.