To use primary sources to compare education now and then.

• History
• Primary Education

To use primary sources to      Victorian era 

compare education in

and now

When comparing and contrasting education in the Victorian era and modern schooling, primary sources are essential for gaining firsthand insights into each time period. Here are some key primary sources for both eras:

When comparing and contrasting education in the Victorian era and modern schooling, primary sources are essential for gaining firsthand insights into each time period. Here are some key primary sources for both eras:

A primary source is a first-hand account or original evidence from the time being studied.

Q:  "If you wanted to remember what happened on your last birthday, what would be better—a video of the party or a story someone else wrote about it?"

primary source

        diary

secondary source

Types of Primary Sources:

Written (Diaries, Letters, Newspapers)                       

Visual/Audio (Photos, Videos, Speeches)

Artifacts (Old Coins, Clothing, Monuments)

Legal Documents (Census Data, Court Records)

Text

Modern Schooling Primary Sources:

Current Educational Policies & Government Reports – Documents like the National Curriculum guidelines or the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) outline modern educational standards.

School Websites & Prospectuses – Provide direct insight into modern schools, subjects, and teaching methodologies.

Student & Teacher Diaries, Blogs, or Interviews – Firsthand accounts of school life today.

Lesson Plans & Digital Textbooks – Show how subjects are taught today, often integrating technology.

Which of the following is a primary source?

1. A history textbook
2. A diary entry from a Victorian student
3. A blog post summarizing past education
4. A Wikipedia article

What makes a source ‘primary’?

1. It is written by an expert historian
2. It is a firsthand account from the time period being studied
3. It is based on research from multiple sources
4. It includes analysis and interpretations

Why are primary sources valuable in historical research?

1. They provide direct evidence from the time period
2. They are always 100% accurate
3. They include detailed modern analysis
4. They are written in simple language

Which document would be a primary source for studying Victorian-era education?

1. A government report from 1870 about education reforms
2. A 2020 documentary about Victorian schools
3. A modern teacher’s blog post on 19th-century teaching
4. A fictional novel set in the Victorian era

Which of these is NOT a primary source?

1. A letter from a soldier during World War I
2. A photograph taken in the 1800s
3. A YouTube video explaining ancient Egypt
4. A newspaper article from 1920 reporting an event

Victorian vs. Modern Education

A Comparison of Schooling Then and Now

School accessibility

Victorian Era:

Education was not free; many poor children worked instead of attending school.

The 1870 Education Act made schooling compulsory for ages 5-10, but attendance was inconsistent.

Wealthy children had governesses or private schools; poorer children attended charity-run schools.

Today:

Education is free and compulsory from ages 5-18.

Equal opportunities for all children, regardless of gender or background.

Special Educational Needs (SEN) support is available.

Teaching Methods

Victorian Era:

Learning was based on rote memorization and repetition.

Subjects: Reading, Writing, Arithmetic, Religious Studies, and practical skills.

Teaching was strict, and lessons were often dull.

Today:

Interactive learning with a focus on creativity and problem-solving.

A broader curriculum: science, history, arts, PE, and digital literacy.

Use of technology such as computers, interactive whiteboards, and online resource

Discipline

Victorian Era:

Corporal punishment was common (cane, dunce cap, finger stocks).

Strict discipline; minor mistakes led to severe punishments.

Today:

Corporal punishment is banned in most countries.

Schools focus on positive reinforcement and emotional support.

Resources & Environment

Victorian Era:

Overcrowded, poorly lit classrooms with wooden desks and chalkboards.

Minimal resources; students used slates instead of paper.

Gender-segregated classes; rigid seating arrangements.

Today:

Modern schools with libraries, computers, and digital tools.

Comfortable learning environments and collaborative seating.

Mixed-gender education with a focus on inclusivity and well-being.

Future Opportunities

Victorian Era:

Education often ended early, especially for the working class.

Boys prepared for trades; girls trained for domestic roles.

Higher education was mainly for wealthy males.

Today:

Many paths: university, college, apprenticeships, and lifelong learning.

Equal opportunities for all genders.

Education is seen as a foundation for various careers.

Conclusion

Victorian education was strict, unequal, and focused on discipline and memorization.

Modern education is inclusive, engaging, and prepares students for diverse careers.

While discipline ensured order in Victorian schools, today’s system values creativity, well-being, and adaptability.

Discussion Questions

What are some advantages of Victorian schooling?

How has technology changed education today?

If you had to study in a Victorian school for one week, what would be the biggest challenge?

What are some advantages of Victorian schooling?

Strong discipline – Encouraged respect and order.

Basic literacy and numeracy – Focus on essential skills (Reading, Writing, Arithmetic).

Clear structure and routine – Students followed a strict timetable.

Practical skills training – Children learned trades (boys) or domestic skills (girls) for future jobs.

 How has technology changed education today?

Interactive learning – Smartboards, tablets, and digital resources.

Instant access to information – The internet allows quick research.

Personalized learning – AI and apps adjust to students' needs.

Remote learning – Education available beyond physical classrooms.

Collaboration & communication – Online tools connect students and teachers.

If you had to study in a Victorian school for one week, what would be the biggest challenge?

Strict discipline – Harsh punishments like the cane.

Memorization-based learning – Repeating facts without discussion.

No technology – No internet, videos, or interactive tools.

Classroom conditions – Overcrowded, cold, and uncomfortable.

Gender segregation – Different subjects and expectations for boys and girls

Victorian schools primarily focused on which approach?

1. Memorization and rote learning
2. Collaborative group work

What was a major difference in classroom size?

1. Smaller class sizes in modern schools
2. Larger class sizes in modern schools

Which subject was emphasized in modern schools?

1. Victorian literature
2. Critical thinking
3. Latin language
4. Creative arts

What was a common feature of Victorian schools?

1. Open classroom design
2. Formal uniforms
3. Flexible teaching methods
4. Strict discipline