Hermann Kern German teacher of the Herbart school Date of Birth: 12.09.1823 Country: Germany

1. Hermann Kern: A Disciple of Herbart's Pedagogy
2. Contributions to Herbartian Metaphysics
3. Integration of Philosophy into Secondary Education
4. Concentration of Instruction
5. Reform of Real Schools
6. Masterwork on Pedagogy
7. Legacy

Hermann Kern: A Disciple of Herbart's Pedagogy

Hermann Kern was a German educator who followed the pedagogical principles of Johann Friedrich Herbart. He served as the director of a gymnasium in Berlin.

Contributions to Herbartian Metaphysics

Kern's first major work, "Ein Beitrag zur Rechtfertigung der Herbartischen Metaphysik" (A Contribution to the Justification of Herbartian Metaphysics), was published in 1849. In this book, he defended Herbart's philosophical theories, which aimed to establish a scientific basis for education.

Integration of Philosophy into Secondary Education

Kern also advocated for the integration of philosophy into secondary education. In "Die philosoph. Prop?deutik in Verbindung mit dem mathem. und physik. Gymnasialunterricht" (Philosophical Propaedeutics in Connection with Mathematics and Physics Instruction in the Gymnasium), published in 1861, he argued that philosophy could help students develop critical thinking skills and a deeper understanding of the world.

Concentration of Instruction

Inspired by Herbart's concept of concentration, Kern emphasized the importance of focusing on a few key concepts in teaching rather than attempting to cover a wide range of subjects. In "Die Koncentration des Unterrichts u. der Realschule" (The Concentration of Instruction and the Real School), published in 1863, he applied this principle to the curriculum of a Real School, which offered a more practical education.

Reform of Real Schools

Kern was a vocal advocate for the reform of Real Schools. In "Zur Realschulenfrage" (On the Question of Real Schools), published in 1869, he argued for their expansion and recognition as a viable alternative to classical grammar schools.

Masterwork on Pedagogy

Kern's most significant work, "Grundriss der P?dagogik" (Outline of Pedagogy), was published in 1873. This comprehensive treatise summarized his pedagogical theories and became widely influential in Germany and beyond. It went through several editions, with the fourth and final edition appearing in 1887.

Legacy

Hermann Kern played a pivotal role in the dissemination and refinement of Herbart's pedagogical ideas. Through his writings and teaching, he helped to shape the educational landscape of Germany in the late 19th century and beyond.