Abstract:

The research is focused on the historical development of technical education and handicrafts included in general education at schools aimed at children of 6–14 years of age. The paper does not discuss training of professionals. Geographically, the research focuses on the territory of contemporary Czech Republic and it examines the period between 1774 and 1918. This period of time has not yet been recorded, nor systematically elaborated in expert literature despite the fact that the principles and findings elaborated at this time laid the foundations of contemporary form of general technical education.

The paper relies on methods typical for historical research. Archive sources supporting historical facts were searched for and studied. Furthermore, theoretical methods based on studying published research treatises and reports, curricular and strategic documents were used. The excerpted findings were subjected to a comparative analysis and critical evaluation in order to mutually interconnect them so as to create a new theoretical framework.

Our analysis brought about the following findings: in the early days of technical (handicraft-related) education at primary schools, it is possible to observe two main trends. The aim of the first one was to introduce handicrafts at schools in order to enhance manual and craft-related skills necessary for pupils’ later life. The handicrafts were separated from other educational subjects; the manual (physical) work of pupils was, in some cases, of a gainful nature. The second trend saw handicrafts as a natural part of a child’s universal development. Work was a means of education; an activity which is joyous and develops diligence, obedience, resolution, morality, and ability to think. Additionally, improvement in the work itself was perceived as beneficial since it led to craft mastery.

What is also to be evaluated as positive was the introduction of handicrafts as an educational means at schools for pupils with learning disabilities, pupils with physical disabilities, and pupils with behavioral disorders. Judging by the results achieved in the past, the use of handicrafts at respective schools proved to be successful.

Keywords:

Technical education, handicrafts, primary school, work education, craft, pupil with learning difficulties, Czech Republic.