JEAN JACQUES ROUSSEAU

(word version)

1. First read some background information about Rousseau and his works at http://www.infed.org/thinkers/et-rous.htm and at http://academic.evergreen.edu/curricular/mit2005/Fall/rousseau.htm. Be sure to read through all of both pieces J. Pay particular attention to the sections on education and on the development of the person. These overviews ARE NOT SUBSTITUTES for carefully reading Rousseau’s own words, but they will provide you with a framework for understanding the chapter from The Emile that you will also be reading. Use the chapters in The Emile to help yourself “unpack” the brief outline notes found on these links. YOU DO NOT NEED TO MAKE A VISUALM MAP OF THESE LINKS.

Another source of information about Rousseau can be found at

http://www.wabash.edu/Rousseau/. You are not required to read this piece but you might find the links interesting.

2. Use this website http://www.ilt.columbia.edu/pedagogies/rousseau/contents2.html to find chapters from The Emile.

Ø You might be interested in reading the Translator’s comments to understand her priorities in translating The Emile.

Ø Click on Frames Version.

Ø Then go to the left-hand column.

Ø Use the scroll button under Contents to find the chapter you are to read.

Ø Note that there are links within the text that will take you to comments that may help explain concepts.

3. Everyone will read the Preface and one chapter of The Emile at the web-site above. Make a visual map of both the Preface and your chapter.

4. See below for YOUR chapter assignment. On Tuesday, Oct. 18 you will meet with other people who have read the same chapter as you. Together you will discuss the chapter and make sure that all of you understand the major points related to the following issues, provided this information is covered in your chapter:

a) Rousseau’s views on human nature, development, education, and the purpose of education

b) Particular strategies or experiences he suggests for children at the stage you are reading about

c) The roles of “teachers” and the roles of the student

d) The tension between need and want, and between individual freedom and the good of society

5. We will then re-form groups to include people representing all the chapters. You will spend time helping each other understand the sequence of developmental stages described by Rousseau, as well as his ideas about the nature of children, development through stages, roles of the “teacher” and the student, the relationship of the individual to society, and the purposes of education.

6. Time permitting, we’ll watch some video clips about a school that purports to be based on Rousseau’s philosophy. You’ll have an opportunity to evaluate whether or not Rousseau would support the content and practices of the school.

CHAPTER ASSIGNMENTS FOR THE EMILE

http://www.ilt.columbia.edu/pedagogies/rousseau/contents2.html

Remember, everyone needs to read the Preface!

CHAPTER 1	CHAPTER 2	CHAPTER 3	CHAPTER 4
Julia A. Adeena Nanci Karyn A. Erin Emily Hilary Anna Joshua Steve Katherine R.	Lauren G. Julie H. Ryan Kristin S. Nora Nicole Sally Don Michael Susan Krissy Todd	Ben Heather Karen B. Lauren F. Bailey Mac Sara del Moral Emma Sarah B. Katie A. Mark Kate O’Brien	Candi Connie M. Derek Alissa Sacha Linda Connie W. Kelly Nathan Molly Seamus Hannah