In the United States, mandatory primary education became a requirement in 1918. This was relatively late in comparison with the rest of the world. Regardless though of where you lived, primary education became mandatory sometime after 1775.¹ It is definitely notable that in the 250 years since then - a relatively small portion of human history since the agricultural revolution - we have seen the most invention, innovation and discovery in all of human history.¹ Water purification, antibiotics, space exploration, the internet and a stunning increase in life expectancy have all been an indirect result of an educated human race.¹
With this in mind, it is indisputable that education matters. A educated base has been a driving force behind all of human achievement in the last 250 years. This grave importance is why the field of Education has become a legitimate area of inquiry.¹ In the last few decades, the field has evolved into a multidisciplinary framework, with contributions from philosophy, history, sociology and psychology.¹ Many academics have realized the importance of publicly accessible education operating as effectively and in as widespread of a manner as possible.
BrainMass understands the multidisciplinary nature of the study of Education and has sections from several disciplines. These include the Philosophy of Education and Sociology of Education.¹ There are also sections concerning different forms of formal education; including homeschooling, public school, post secondary and private schooling.¹
Image source:
1. Wikimedia
Reference:
1. VlogBrothers. An Open Letter to Students Returning. Retrieved May 14, 2014, from http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x78PnPd-V-A