Examined in this document are four phases of what are referred to as the counter environment, a new system of beliefs and counter institutions to care for people. The topics studied fall into the general areas of education, therapy, health care, and utopias. Free schools are discussed in terms of varied definitions, historical growth, basic…

Commonwealth College was the longest lived and most notorious of the resident labor colleges operating during the 1920s-30s. Founded in 1923 at NewLlano Cooperative Colony in Louisiana, the school was modeled on the self-maintenance characteristics of an abortive pre-war experiment in social education: Ruskin College. Disputes over priorities with…

This paper provides a descriptive summary of the historical development, the basic features, the organizational structure, the patterns of child-rearing and education, and specific research findings concerning the Kibbutz Movement in Israel. Four main types of collective settlements are described, along with the main characteristics and tenets…

A description of a day in a 10-student community home school in British Columbia gives insights into the author/teacher's educational philosophy, his views on the role and function of public schools, the role of community and family in education, teacher-student relationships, and how knowledge and information are secondary to instilling an…

Reveals the role of literacy in the household of an Amish family, emphasizing that reading and writing are valued for their ability to reinforce cultural ties and identification more than for their educational value. Indicates that all literacy instruction should aim to help students understand their role in their society. (SKC)

Examines the work and philosophy of Harry Lowerison, a turn-of-the-century London teacher and socialist. Specifically, recounts his development of the Ruskin School Home, an experimental and communal school for boys and girls. Discusses the school's policies, curriculum, admission requirements, and educational philosophy. Reprints handbills and…

Discusses the utopian philosophy and related educational practices of the early 19th-century communitarian settlement in New Harmony, Indiana. The settlement failed after several years, due in no small part to the falling out between its two main supporters, Robert Owen and William Maclure. (MJP)

Asserts that social and economic changes have weakened the essential ideals of kibbutz education. Previously these ideals facilitated a prosocial orientation, emotional moderation, and a strong sense of belonging. Although modern changes may be incompatible with traditional kibbutz education, they serve the current generation's emotional needs.…

Explains how the ideals of the Jewish tradition, Socialist Zionism, and progressive education made education for work central in the kibbutz. Clarifies the role of education for work in the self-realization process of the kibbutz. Concludes with an examination of current attitudes towards this process and its effectiveness. (MJP)

Analyzes kibbutz adolescents' behavior at four biographical stages: voluntary community service, military service, leave of absence from the kibbutz, and higher education. Determines a distinct association between the socializing agents in the kibbutz and the development of democratic values. (MJP)

Educational accomplishments of the People's Republic of China have been achieved by emphasis on moral, intellectual, and physical development of every individual, and on schooling combined with and in preparation for productive labor. Open-door schooling combines in-school learning with out-of-school practice, so students learn about life and work…

Examines the question of how, and if, kibbutz social values are transmitted through kibbutz studies curricula. Determined that the accepted attitude of instructors (neutral and objective) was at odds with the inherent socialization of the kibbutz's mission. Includes a brief history of kibbutz development. (MJP)