The New International Encyclopaedia Volume 3 (Paperback)

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can usually download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1918 edition. Excerpt: ...the blind to participate in all the educational benefits provided for every child in the Commonwealth is acknowledged by the State in its sovereign capacity, and since they cannot be taught in the common schools, an express provision is made for their instruction. This policy has acted very favorably upon the blind and has inspired them with selfrespect and a worthy ambition to be independent. The general system adopted in the American schools is as follows: (1) ti give to all pupils the same sort of instruction, and to the same degree, as is given in the best public common schools; (2) to tench them the elements of vocal and instrumental music; (3) to train them iu some sort of simple handicraft by which to earn a livelihood. Owing, however, to the prevailing desire of the young in America to strike out in new directions, to the general preference for brain work rather than hand work, and to the disadvantage at which the blind do mechanical work, comparatively few, hardly twotenths, it is said, practice for a living the handicrafts which they have learned at the several institutions. Most of the graduates resort to various branches of the musical profession, teaching the elements of vocal and instrumental music, playing upon organs, tuning pianos, or trading in musical instruments. Some graduates take petty agencies and with a guide go about the country peddling on their own account. Others, favored by friends, find employment in some of the establishments where hand work combined with a certain amount of headwork is required. A few work diligently at their trades and earn an honest and comfortable livelihood. The general condition of the graduates is affected by the prevailing feeling of compassion, which, it must be said, is often...