Vocational Teacher Training Course 1928-29 Commercial Printing Trade [2 volumes lesson plans, worsheets, notes on pedagogy]

Commonwealth of Massachusetts Department of Education, Division of Vocational Education, Vocational Teacher-Training Note: Two volumes covering the practical material of the printing trade, notes on general teaching philosophy, many lesson plans and completed worksheets developed by the MA Department of Education, with their 4p circular “The Teacher’s Task and Qualifications for It (Circular 49)” bound in. Green cloth quartos, likely bound by Hadley as part of the course requirements. Worksheets dated 1928-1929.

One volume consists of approx. 42 leaves of notes on general pedagogy and philosophies of teaching, including matters of discipline (“Element of Fear–Never use extreme sarcasm to either class or individual”) and the relationship of mental learning to manual training in vocational ed. Gives several teaching exercises, like articulating the aim, purpose, approach, and “standard of achievement” for sharpening a pencil. Some specific references to the organization and requirements for teaching in Boston Schools and a brief history of trade schools. The material in this volume is typed, with a few charming diagrams in ink scattered throughout.

The other volume contains worksheets and manuscript notes, including several “Progressive Outline of the Printing Trade” folding charts and assorted ephemera bound-in. The contents focus on the practical aspects of printing, including press and bindery work, with detailed information about each element. Information itself as well as how to teach it, with a series of Massachusetts standardized “Lesson Planning Sheets” which provide a formula for the teachers-in-training to identify the ideas being presented and draft a form of playscript for the lesson incorporating hypothetical students: “What am I holding in my hand now, George?” (A sheet of paper.) “Where am I placing it, James?”

Earle L. Hadley (1897-1983) was born in Boston and served in both World Wars. After completing his training, he moved to California and worked as a printing teacher in the Los Angeles City Schools.