A mediator between different nations?: The introduction of laboratory instruction in science curricula of secondary education in Belgium and Germany (1880-1914)
- Autores: Sofie Onghena
- Localización: The Circulation of Science and Technology: Proceedings of the 4th International Conference of the European Society for the History of Science. Barcelona, 18-20 November 2010 / coord. por Antoni M. Roca Rosell, 2012, ISBN 978-84-9965-108-8, págs. 65-70
- Idioma: inglés
- Texto completo no disponible (Saber más ...)
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Resumen
The introduction of laboratory education at Belgian secondary schools during the years 1880-1914 was strongly influenced by German science education. A large part of school books and textbooks used by Belgian science teachers were translations of German publications and the laboratory apparatus in Belgian school laboratories was to a great extent of German origin. Belgian academic scientists got acquainted with German science education combining research and instruction during post-academic training at German universities and laboratories. Fascinated by the integration of experimental and instrument manipulations in German science education, they also ardently pleaded for the introduction of laboratory instruction at secondary schools, created from 1880 onwards at state schools. My paper deals with the characteristics of Belgian experimental education as well. This will lead to an analysis of the uniqueness of Belgian science education at secondary schools, also influenced by French science, illustrated by the following quote of a Belgian scholar concerning disseminating science: ‘Belgium is surprisingly well placed to serve as mediator between different nations.’
