A final test of the pupil’s efficiency lies in his ability to plan and
carry to completion an original project. Originality does not consist
in making an article never heard of before, but in adapting to one’s
specific needs, principles and processes already learned through class
instruction.
A fitting close to a course in elementary book-binding is such a
problem. If pupils choose to make articles such as the memorandum pad
or the hinged covers which have already been taught, they should be
accepted as original work, provided that each pupil selects the size
and proportions himself, and does not depend on the teacher to repeat
the instruction in detail. Yet more credit should be given one whose
originality extends further as in the case of a boy who made for his
father’s use a holder for conductor’s checks, or the one who made a
mount for telephone numbers.
All articles constructed should be such as are appropriately made of
the materials used. Models, such as are sometimes made of cardboard,
to be constructed later of different materials should be excluded from
this course.
It is by no means essential or desirable that originality be held in
abeyance until the end of the course but rather, it should be fostered
during each succeeding lesson. The pupils who work more rapidly than
the average of the class may always have on hand an extra piece of work
to be done when the regular assignment has been completed.
The adaptation of any problem to a specific purpose should always be
considered an opportunity for the development of class originality. For
example, a principal may want several portfolios in which to keep a
particular kind of papers; or a set of hinged covers to hold a “Course
of Study” may be desired for each teacher’s desk. These should be
considered class problems and worked out as such.
It should be continually borne in mind that the object of the course is
the development of the child. When he is conscious of the ability to
make an article of intrinsic value a long step has been taken. “To help
the pupil to help himself” is the highest aim of education.