From Generation to Generation

Technology is such a important tool in our modern education system. Students are constantly on their computers, iPad's, cell phones and other devices to help them learn and expand their knowledge. Until I began this course, I never thought about what the world would be like today if we didn't have books or magazines. The invention of the printing press could be considered the starting point for well-received formal education. In the middle 1600's, books became more widely available and in 1647, the General Court of the Massachusetts Bay Colony passed an act to promote, and insure, universal literacy. This act required every town, of a certain size, had a schoolmaster and a place for people to come and learn. Part of the reason why this act was so important is because the Puritans placed a great deal of emphasis and importance on the ability to read and interpret the Bible. Soon after, the founders of the Massachusetts Bay Colony, who were mostly educated at Cambridge University, decided to establish similar institutions. From this, New College was born, which is now known as Harvard College. The printing press was such an important technological advance. It paved the way, and help put a greater amount of importance, on education and written communication.