Elementary and Secondary Schools:
* Conformity and Traditionalism: The dominant model was still quite traditional, emphasizing rote learning, memorization, and a structured curriculum focused on the "basics" – reading, writing, arithmetic, and sometimes, a heavy emphasis on spelling and grammar. Discipline was often strict, with corporal punishment still common in many schools.
* Segregation's Aftermath: The Civil Rights Movement significantly impacted education. While *Brown v. Board of Education* (1954) had declared segregation unconstitutional, desegregation was slow and often met with resistance. Many schools remained segregated, either de facto (through housing patterns) or de jure (by law in some areas). The integration process itself often caused significant friction and challenges.
* Early Childhood Education: While not universally available, the beginnings of preschool and Head Start programs aimed at providing early childhood education to disadvantaged children were emerging.
* Limited Resources: Funding for schools, particularly in poorer districts, was often inadequate, leading to disparities in educational opportunities. Class sizes could be large.
* The "Silent Generation" and Baby Boomers: The educational system was dealing with the large influx of baby boomers, leading to overcrowding in many schools. This generation, often described as the "Silent Generation," was expected to conform and obey authority.
Higher Education:
* Increased Access: The GI Bill from World War II continued to impact higher education, making it more accessible to veterans. Overall, college enrollment was increasing, reflecting a growing middle class.
* The Rise of the Counterculture: College campuses became centers of social and political activism. The Vietnam War fueled widespread student protests and a questioning of traditional authority, leading to significant social and political change within universities.
* Traditional Disciplines: While change was brewing, the focus remained largely on traditional academic disciplines, with less emphasis on vocational training compared to later decades.
* Growing Research: Government funding for scientific research increased dramatically, particularly in areas relevant to the Cold War (like space exploration and defense). This impacted universities and research institutions significantly.
Key Differences from Today:
* Technology: Computers were rare in schools and classrooms, and educational technology was rudimentary. Teaching was almost entirely reliant on textbooks, blackboards, and lectures.
* Curriculum: The curriculum was generally more rigid and less diverse. There was less emphasis on individualized learning, critical thinking, and creativity.
* Social Issues: Schools were grappling with the impact of desegregation, the burgeoning civil rights movement, and the growing anti-war sentiment. These social issues often directly impacted the classroom and educational experience.
In short, education in the 1960s was a transitional period. While traditional methods and structures still predominated, the seeds of significant reform were being sown, fueled by social movements and changing societal expectations. The decade's legacy is a complex mixture of both the successes and the limitations of a system undergoing considerable transformation.