From the PREFACE.
The object of this book is twofold: first, to give an accurate picture of the German school system, especially that of Prussia, which was foremost in establishing a school system thorough in all respects; and second, to draw lessons from the same which can be applied in the American schools and for the improvement of her school systems. In order to obtain reliable information concerning the German schools it became necessary to examine a vast literature, as there is no single book in German giving a complete picture of the school system, and this would still leave many questions unsettled to the foreign student. Therefore it became necessary to study the subject on the ground where answers and explanations could be obtained from school officials and teachers. This study began twelve years ago, and four of these years have been spent in Germany. Access to the public libraries, and also to the private libraries of school men, together with the advice and assistance of many eminent teachers, have been of utmost value to me in securing correct data and in reaching absolute facts.
Not less important was the actual inspection of schools, and this has been made in all parts of Germany; institutions of all kinds have been visited, from the school in the lonely village, where perhaps a single teacher instructs a hundred children, to the most complete school system of the largest city, and from the common school to the gymnasium and university. Uniform courtesy has ever been shown, and the school officials and teachers have never failed to give me an opportunity not only to see actual work, but also to obtain correct information concerning the schools.
In regard to the second motive, that of suggesting reforms in the American schools, I trust no one will think that I believe in bodily transporting the German school system to American soil. There are certain reforms needed, and the sooner we recognize the fact and set about their introduction, the better for our schools and for the cause of education. We should be ready to learn from any and every source; and if Germany has anything good that we can apply, prejudice should not prevent its application. That Germany has some good things entirely applicable to our conditions, I believe these pages will show. The object is not to improve the German schools, therefore their defects-and they have serious defects--will not be given prominence....