Educational Resources in the British Empire: Examining Nineteenth Century Ireland and Literacy

Description

This book explores the impact of the Lesson Books of the National Board of Education in Ireland in the nineteenth century. The author contextualizes the books used in national schools as well as across the wider British Empire: in doing so, he highlights the influence of the religious, social, political and cultural realms of the time. Firmly grounding the volume in its historical context, the author goes on to explore the contemporary moral climate and social influences, including imperialism, morality, rote-learning and socialization. Through meticulous analysis of each Lesson Book, the author traces the evolution of education in Ireland as a reflection of contemporary society, as it changes and transforms in line with cultural, religious and social changes. This pioneering and comprehensive volume will be of interest and value to students and scholars of education in Ireland as well as education in the British Empire more widely. Front Matter ....Pages i-xiii Introduction (Tony Lyons, Noel Moloney)....Pages 1-17 Pathways to Literacy: Its Nature and the Extent of Its Provision in Nineteenth Century Ireland (Tony Lyons, Noel Moloney)....Pages 19-59 ‘What Book Are You On’? Spirituality and Rote-Learning (Tony Lyons, Noel Moloney)....Pages 61-104 Rationality, Utility, and Imperialism (Tony Lyons, Noel Moloney)....Pages 105-150 Great Expectations: Science and Technology (Tony Lyons, Noel Moloney)....Pages 151-184 Reading Book for Female Schools: Minerva or Madonna (Tony Lyons, Noel Moloney)....Pages 185-213 Pedagogy of Literacy in the Nineteenth Century (Tony Lyons, Noel Moloney)....Pages 215-255 The Irish Lesson Books Elsewhere in the British Empire (Tony Lyons, Noel Moloney)....Pages 257-287 Conclusion (Tony Lyons, Noel Moloney)....Pages 289-298 Back Matter ....Pages 299-320