The Industrial Revolution marked a period of technological advancements and social-economic change that reshaped almost every aspect of human life. This brought about the growth of education as factories sprung up and manufacturing techniques began to shift from traditional methods to more structured systems. In this article, Audrey Davis delves into the progress of education during the Industrial Revolution and how schools meet the demands of the evolving world today.
The 1830 opening of the Liverpool and Manchester Railway.
The modern world was not born with the computer or moving objects. It all began with the steam engine and the industrial revolution that grew around it. Looking at the world today, the advent of technologies, education, growing innovations, and many more were all connected to the industrial revolution.
The Industrial Revolution not only catalyzed technological advancements but also spurred the demand for education to meet the evolving needs of society. It can even be said that research paper services play a crucial role in exploring the educational developments of this transformative era.
Now, let’s take a closer look at the history of the Industrial Revolution.
History of the Industrial Revolution
Many years back, arguably the first human work revolution was the agricultural revolution then children learned trades such as weaving, carpentry leather work, while some also learned how to plant and care for animals. Later the Industrial Revolution came, and everything changed.
The first industrial revolution began in Britain in the 18th century, particularly from about 1760 to 1840 and then spread to other places in the world. The steam engine was the most relevant invention in this era and was needed to spark stronger steel, inspire iron production, and make trains. And all this is powered by coal to transport it.
Our society gradually became industrialized and urban as innovations developed. France started emerging as an industrial power in the mid-19th century. Germany grew rapidly in industrial production after national unity was reached in 1870 and produced more steel than Britain, becoming the world leader in chemical industries. And Japan too later joined the race with striking success.
Moreover, China and India began their first industrial revolutions in the 20th century; whereas the United States and Western Europe in some ways underwent their Second Industrial Revolution in the late 19th century. During this era there was the innovation of transportation, steamship communication, automobile, radio, telegraph and even the famous Edison light bulb.
Likewise, renewable energy, the internet and advancement in technology also began in the third industrial revolution in the 20th century. The fourth industrial revolution is the digital revolution including the emergence of Artificial Intelligence, 3D printing, the internet of things, robotics and many more innovations that are reshaping the world.
Early impacts of education
Education plays a vital role in economic growth and development; it also changes society. Before the Industrial Revolution, education was very shallow, meaning most of the people in society were illiterate, focusing more on farming and daily survival. There was little or no interest in knowledge because schools weren't yet free for poor children. But with the creation of factories and companies, there was increasing demand for technical skills, hence people migrated from rural to urban cities in search of these skills because factories paid higher wages than agriculture. As a result, more products were produced, more industries innovated, and more workers were needed. The standard of living began to increase as more goods were created.
However, during the industrial revolution, the government saw a great need for training. Companies needed workers and there were more job opportunities. Education was made accessible by empowering children and youths in the pursuit of knowledge. Citizens were trained in different professions, which allowed specialization. And this made the government believe that for a nation to be powerful there is a need for significant intellectual development.
As a result of this, many progressive improvements were acquired.
Education in the Industrial Revolution
As the economy evolved more industries were developed, factories were created, and more human labor was needed. In the 1800s, formal education became accessible even to the poorest people. Children were taught basic literacy and numeracy skills.
During the period, the governments of many developed countries were more focused on educational development. The British government implemented the Elementary Education Act which clearly stated that children between the ages of 5 to 13 must attend school. With the allocation of funds to improving the educational system, furnishing existing schools, and providing free education, government was determined to improve the knowledge of children.
The act was passed because of political considerations such as the need for a stronger economy. Great Britain formulated this policy due to certain imposed risks on an inefficient education system and the need to curb the situation.
Major criticisms of education in the early ages
Unarguably, education is a great achievement as it leads to economic growth and development. However, there are certain objections to the outbreak of global education in the early ages.
Limited access: Education was only accessible for rich people while girls and children from low-income families find it difficult to attend better schools.
Poor quality of education: Schools during this period were overcrowded and lacked proper facilities which led to poor teaching and learning environment.
Lack of relevance to daily life: The education system then centered on the Bible with no knowledge and practical skills related to schooling and reality.
Impact of the Industrial Revolution on the educational system
Economic growth: True, the Industrial Revolution brought so many changes, changes which affected business profits, national development, individuals, and growing economies. It brought about changes in many aspects of life both negatively and positively.
The emergence of factories: The increasing rate of industries due to innovations caused a wide demand for the labor force specialized in different areas. In addition, new technologies were introduced, and there was a major increase in the use of machines.
Government interest in education: To improve their economies and create strong political factors, the government embarked on training citizens by providing infrastructural development in schools. Trained staff were employed to train citizens in various specialized areas.
The primary importance of education: During the Industrial Revolution, citizens saw the importance of education in the system. Various Acts such as the Education Act created in 1902, the Public School Act in 1868, and many more were created.
Conclusion
The Industrial Revolution and education have shaped the economy we see today. There were different factories with different production such as agriculture, metals, synthetic products and so much more. So, it is important to show the past and the striving future where education remains a powerful force in meeting the evolving needs of society.
