Degree Type
Dissertation
Date of Award
2008
Degree Name
Doctor of Philosophy
Department
History
First Advisor
Amy S. Bix
Second Advisor
Alan I. Marcus
Third Advisor
Hamilton Cravens
Abstract
This manuscript examines the intellectual, cultural, and practical approaches to science and engineering education as a part of the land-grant college movement in the Midwest between the 1850s and early 1900s. These land-grant institutions began and grew within unique frontier societies that both cherished self-reliance and diligently worked to make themselves part of the larger national experience. College administrators and professors encountered rapidly changing public expectations, regional needs, and employment requirements. They recognized a dire need for technically skilled men and women who could quickly adapt to changes in equipment and processes, and implement advances in scientific knowledge in American homes, fields, and factories. Charged with educating the "industrial classes in the several pursuits and professions in life," land-grant college supporters and professors sought out the most modern and innovative instructional methods. Combining the humanities, sciences, and practical skills that they believed uniquely suited student needs, these pioneering educators formulated new curricula and training programs that advanced both the knowledge and the social standing of America's agricultural and mechanical working classes.
DOI
https://doi.org/10.31274/rtd-180813-17023
Publisher
Digital Repository @ Iowa State University, http://lib.dr.iastate.edu/
Copyright Owner
Paul Nienkamp
Copyright Date
2008
Language
en
Proquest ID
AAI3316176
OCLC Number
268661687
ISBN
9780549688068
File Format
application/pdf
File Size
342 pages
Recommended Citation
Nienkamp, Paul, "A culture of technical knowledge: professionalizing science and engineering education in late-nineteenth century America" (2008). Retrospective Theses and Dissertations. 15820.
https://lib.dr.iastate.edu/rtd/15820
Included in
History of Science, Technology, and Medicine Commons, Other History Commons, Science and Mathematics Education Commons, United States History Commons