The purpose of these divisions into groups, etc., is to give each pupil-teacher as much practice as possible. The teacher begins with a small number of pupils, and advances, as teaching power increases, to the leadership of a section, a division, and at last to a special assistant’s position. The latter position requires the ability to teach and govern an entire grade or room.
The entire work of the Professional Training Class is, in reality, preparation for practice teaching,—preparation in knowledge, theory and methods.
The course of work for the Training Class includes the following subjects:
1. Psychology, pedagogics, the history of education and methods of teaching.
2. Science in primary and grammar schools.
3. Geography with modelling, painting, drawing and chalk modelling as means of geographical study.
4. History and literature.
5. Mathematics; number, arithmetic, form and geometry.
6. Art, including modelling, painting and drawing.
7. Physical training, elocution, the Delsarte system of expression and vocal music.