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Dissertation
William Torrey Harris's Contributions to the Professionalization of Teaching
University of West Florida Libraries
Doctor of Education (EDD), University of West Florida
2015
Abstract
A gap in historical research was determined and a historiography was conducted to answer this research question: How did William Torrey Harris help to elevate the professionalization of teaching? Harris held multiple educational positions throughout his fortyeight year career and contributed to the professionalization of teaching within each post. As a teacher and principal, Harris functioned as an active member of multiple local and national level teachers' associations and organizations to promote education. He initiated the graded system into schools, increased opportunities for African American teachers, and wrote the memorial which helped to establish Kirksville Normal School. As Assistant Superintendent, Harris conducted numerous school visits and provided feedback to teachers. The introduction of Leigh's Phonetic System improved reading instruction and the increase of German instruction elevated both student and teacher enrollment. Harris's foundation and publication of the Journal of Speculative Philosophy (JSP) added philosophic thought into teachers' lives. During his Superintendence, Harris published key educational pieces containing specific advice for teachers. Harris's annual reports contained evidence of communication and endeavors he made to improve the education of future teachers, current educators, as well as students. Work within the Concord School of Philosophy and as editor of the International Education Series (IES) were additional platforms Harris utilized to share effective techniques and strategies with countless educators. Throughout Harris's post as the U's. Commissioner of Education, his continued effort to professionalize teaching was evident. His work with normal schools, encouragement of communication between libraries and schools, committee involvement, and additional publications were the culmination of lifelong efforts he made to improve the teaching profession.
Details
- Title
- William Torrey Harris's Contributions to the Professionalization of Teaching
- Resource Type
- Dissertation
- Contributors
- Thomas J. Kramer (Committee Member)Rebecca McBride (Committee Member)Joyce C. Nichols (Committee Member)Susan Jans-Thomas (Committee Chair)
- Publisher
- University of West Florida Libraries
- Format
- pdf
- Number of pages
- 187
- Copyright
- © 2014 Nicole Ard Everette
- Identifiers
- 99380090861006600
- Academic Unit
- School of Education
- Language
- English
- Awarding Institution
- University of West Florida; Doctor of Education (EDD)
- Theses and Dissertations
- Doctor of Education (EDD), University of West Florida