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Aleksandr GerdTeacher |
Content:
- Early Life and Education
- Teaching Career
- Director of the Agricultural Colony
- Women's Education and Pedagogy
- Contributions to Pedagogy
- Literary and Editorial Work
- Legacy and Influence
Early Life and Education
Alexander Yakovlevich Gerd, born in 1841, was the son of an English pedagogue who came to Russia during the reign of Alexander I to establish Bell-Lancaster schools. Gerd completed his studies at the University of Saint Petersburg in the Faculty of Physics and Mathematics.
Teaching Career
Gerd actively engaged in воскресные, or Sunday, schools, where he gained valuable teaching experience. He served as a teacher in the First Military Gymnasium from 1865 to 1871 and simultaneously taught at the Page Corps.
Director of the Agricultural Colony
In 1870, Gerd was appointed director of an agricultural colony for juvenile delinquents established near the gunpowder factories outside Saint Petersburg. He traveled abroad to study similar institutions and implemented innovative approaches based on personal influence and compassionate guidance.
Women's Education and Pedagogy
In 1877, Gerd became the principal of Princess Obolenskaya's women's educational establishment, which was later transformed into a gymnasium under the Ministry of Public Education. He was appointed its pedagogical council chairman in 1879.
Gerd also served as a tutor to the children of Tsar Alexander III, including Grand Duke George, Grand Duke Michael, and Grand Duchess Xenia. He was a prominent member and later chairman of the society supporting the Bestuzhev Courses for Women.
Contributions to Pedagogy
Gerd's pedagogical skills and devotion were widely recognized. He taught natural science at the Women's Pedagogical Courses and the Frebel Society courses. From 1880 to 1883, he was an expert for the Saint Petersburg City School Commission. His textbooks, including "Mineral Guide," "Textbook of Mineralogy for City Schools," and "Concise Course in Natural Science," were highly acclaimed.
Literary and Editorial Work
Gerd edited the journal "Teacher" in the late 1860s. He also translated and edited Darwin's "Origin of Species" and Spencer's "Principles of Biology."
Legacy and Influence
Gerd died in 1888. His pedagogical methods and writings influenced future educators, including V.M. Garshin. His legacy continues through his contributions to educational institutions and his enduring works on pedagogy.
