High Schools:
* Expansion of Access: The most dramatic change was the massive expansion of high school enrollment. Before this period, high school was largely for the elite, preparing students for college. The early 20th century saw a push for secondary education to become more accessible to the middle and working classes. This was driven by factors like industrialization (needing a more skilled workforce), progressive education reform movements, and increased urbanization.
* Curriculum Changes: The curriculum shifted from a classical focus (Latin, Greek) to include more vocational subjects like manual training, home economics, and commercial studies to prepare students for diverse careers. While academics remained important, the focus broadened to meet the needs of a diversifying student body and workforce.
* Development of Extracurricular Activities: High schools started emphasizing extracurricular activities like athletics, clubs, and student government. These activities contributed to school spirit, social development, and provided opportunities for leadership.
* Rise of Standardized Testing: While not fully developed, the beginnings of standardized testing emerged as a way to measure student achievement and compare schools. This laid the groundwork for the widespread use of standardized tests in later decades.
* Increased Professionalization of Teachers: There was a growing movement to professionalize teaching, with increased requirements for teacher training and certification.
Colleges and Universities:
* Increased Enrollment: Similar to high schools, college enrollment also expanded, though at a slower pace than high schools. More opportunities for financial aid and scholarships helped make higher education more accessible to a wider range of students.
* Expansion of Disciplines: The range of academic disciplines expanded significantly. New fields like psychology, sociology, and the sciences saw burgeoning growth, reflecting societal changes and technological advancements.
* Research Emphasis: Universities increasingly emphasized research, particularly in the sciences. Land-grant colleges played a crucial role in agricultural and technological research. This era saw the rise of research universities as we know them today.
* Development of Graduate Education: Graduate education expanded significantly, with more opportunities for advanced study and doctoral degrees. This contributed to the professionalization of various fields.
* Influence of Philanthropy: The rise of wealthy philanthropists like Andrew Carnegie and John D. Rockefeller led to significant funding for colleges and universities, fueling their growth and development.
Overall:
The turn of the 20th century marked a turning point in education. Both high schools and colleges became more accessible, diversified their curricula, and adapted to the changing needs of a rapidly industrializing and urbanizing society. While challenges remained in terms of equal access for all social groups, the groundwork was laid for the mass education systems we see today.