Primer on the History and Philosophy of Education, Paperback by Mraz, Mark, ISBN 0761851194, ISBN-13 9780761851196, Like New Used, Free P&P in the UK"Dr. Mark Mraz reminds readers that to not understand history is to reject Western Civilization. Undoubtedly, this book is needed at a time when so many of the nation's universities are dropping Western Civilization course-work requirements (. The University of Chicago, 2002). It is poignant that during a time when people are confusing the popular fiction of The Da Vinci Code with actual history, this book circumscribes an outline of 'great' thinkers and gives readers an overview of the history and philosophy of education. Undoubtedly, the material in this book is essential for preservice teachers so that they can begin to understand the foundations of education and its philosophical roots."-Edwin P. Christmann, ., professor and chairman, Secondary Education Foundation of Education Department, Slippery Rock University
A Primer on the History and Philosophy of Education is an introductory narrative of the foundational educational history and philosophy of the American system. The author presents the history of education as a part of the larger picture of the development of civilization. Therefore, the historic and philosophical antecedents of our current education system are explained. Starting with an overview of history and philosophy, the author proceeds to the Western experience in education as the baseline of all educational eras in the United States. This narrative will stimulate both student and teacher to find deeper veins of historical understanding in other works, internet sources, classical texts, and class discussions. In addition, the brevity of the text allows the instructor to select various works from primary education theorists such as Plato, Rousseau, Burke, and Dewey to augment the course content and tie ths together with lectures and narrative.