10
U niversity o f O regon M onthly
these few accentuated,studies. E. Eyttleton* in special report
on English Education points out that another decided fault
is the early specialization. This specialization is necessary
for passing the scholarship examinations for entrance into
secondary schools. From this brief account of education of
children in England, where external examinations are the
goal and dictate the curriculum, and spoil the teaching it may
be seen that there is violated one of the fundamental princi
ples of pedagogy enunciated by Rosseau namely: the instruc
tion must be adapted to the period of the pupil.
In presenting the evil influences of external examinations
that not only assume a disproportionate importance in an
educational system, but 'also become ends in themselves,- I
do not mean to deny that there are'external examinations th a t
have a necessary and distinct place. These examinations are
means of revealing Qualifications proper for Civil service, the
teaching and other professions, promotions, entrances and
graduations. These examinations will readily be admitted
to be economically necessary, but they are not, and ifi their
nature never cari be, fit means for the proper mental devel
opment.
Now there is, however, a kind of examination which on
the contrary is a-fit means of education and to which it may
be well to direct attention after presenting some of the psy
chical aspects of examinations.
To a healthy growing individual, monotony is' disagree
able. Variety at least is necessary both for strength arid for
mental activity. Some crisis commensurate with the indi
vidual's strength is necessary for healthful integration and
coordination of powers, and wheri past -leaves an organism
of greater stability, endurance and adaptation. This seems
true in all grades of life, but restricting its application solely
to mankind, one may say it holds true of all of his professions
in which he experiences a crisis not too great for Jus prepara
tion. Especially is this true when the crisis can be foretold.
* Special Report on Eng. Educ. Vol. V I, 1900.