An Historical Perspective on Individualised Instruction

Abstract

Interests in individualised instruction have roots in the early decades of this century. The goal of this article is to indicate the continuing nature of the issues being addressed in individualised instruction (particularly in the USA) and thereby to advance the understanding of those who seek to improve educational opportunities through individualisation of instruction. Two time periods have been chosen to gain an historical perspective on individualised instruction. These revolve around two National Society for the Study of Education yearbooks focused upon individualising instruction, one written in 1925, the other in 1962. One conclusion from this review is that there has been remarkably little gain in either intent or practice of individualised instruction in this century.