oncentration of learning in a formal atmosphere allows children to

learn far more of their culture than they are able to do by merely
observing and imitating. As society gradually attaches more and more
importance to education, it also tries to formulate the overall
objectives, content, organization, and strategies of education.
Literature becomes laden with advice on the rearing of the younger
generation. In short, there develop philosophies and theories of
education.

This article discusses the history of education, tracing the evolution of

the formal teaching of knowledge and skills from prehistoric and
ancient times to the present, and considering the various philosophies
that have inspired the resulting systems. Other aspects of education
are treated in a number of articles. For a treatment of education as a
discipline, including educational organization, teaching methods, and
the functions and training of teachers, see teaching; pedagogy;
and teacher education. For a description of education in various
specialized fields, see historiography; legal education; medical
education; science, history of. For an analysis of educational
philosophy, see education, philosophy of. For an examination of some
of the more important aids in education and the dissemination of
knowledge, see dictionary; encyclopaedia; library; museum; printing; 
publishing, history of. Some restrictions on educational freedom are
discussed in censorship. For an analysis of pupil
attributes, see intelligence, human; learning theory; psychological
testing