Outrageous Questions: Legacy of Bronson Alcott and America's One-Room Schools

by Laurie James

This book describes what school was like 150 years ago. It contrasts traditional teaching and discipline with Bronson Alcott's groundbreaking methods. The questions he asked his students in his Conversation on Conscience are included, so readers can respond and compare their answers with what was said in his 1836 classroom. Alcott's techniques of discipline and inductive free inquiry can be successfully applied today. Includes creative suggestions for adults working with children, related activities, original line drawings by John Hartnett, an early drawing of the Temple School, photos of Bronson Alcott, Elizabeth Peabody and Margaret Fuller, a photo legacy of one-room schoolhouses in America, Alcott's 1836 Conversation I, Alcott's Quarter Card of Discipline and Studies for the Spring Term 1836, plus foreward, chronology, biographical and bibliographical references. General audience of adults and children ages eight and up. Particular appeal to teachers and adults working with children. High interest for those specializing in humanities, history, and literature.

102 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1994

Reviews

[Priscilla Herrington · Rating 4 out of 5]

Laurie James has written a wonderful description of Bronson Alcott's teaching methods - which were controversial in his time - and of the one-room schoolhouses that were once so common across the country. Alcott was a dreamer, philosopher and educator, and the father of author Louisa M. Alcott. He loved children and believed in a kind of education that allowed them to discover the answers within themselves.

This would be a lovely book at any time but as of COVID-19 is forcing so many parents to take on more of their children's education that they ever expected to, it might actually prove useful! James includes actual lessons Bronson taught, as recorded by Margaret Fuller. This is a book a parent and child could enjoy together - even younger children might appreciate John Hartnett's illustrations.